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Graceful and quirky, the Mandarin Scooter Blenny (Synchiropus ocellatus) is not a true blenny at all, but a dragonet species closely related to mandarins. With its mottled brown, orange, and cream patterning and hovering, “scooting” swimming style, this fish adds both character and charm to reef aquariums. Its unique movements and bottom-perching habits make it a fascinating fish to watch.
Species: Synchiropus ocellatus
Common Names: Mandarin Scooter Blenny, Ocellated Dragonet, Scooter Dragonet
Origin: Indo-Pacific – lagoons and sheltered reef areas from the Philippines to northern Australia
Light Requirements: Moderate – prefers well-lit reef aquariums with shaded retreats
Diet: Carnivorous – primarily feeds on live copepods, amphipods, and microfauna; may adapt to enriched frozen foods over time
Maximum Size: 7–8 cm
Temperament: Peaceful, shy
Care Level: Advanced – requires a mature, established system with pod populations
Aquarium Setup:
Best housed in reef aquariums of at least 150 litres with mature live rock that supports healthy copepod colonies. Provide plenty of hiding places, caves, and rubble for natural foraging behaviour. They are reef-safe and will not harm corals or ornamental invertebrates but require a calm tank environment without aggressive or fast-feeding competitors.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 24–27°C
pH: 8.1–8.4
Salinity: 1.023–1.025
Hardness: 8–12 dKH
Growth and Maintenance:
Mandarin Scooter Blennies are delicate during acclimation and must have constant access to live foods. While some individuals will accept frozen or prepared foods over time, they thrive best in aquariums with abundant microfauna. Lifespan can extend 5+ years under stable conditions and proper feeding.
Care Tips:
✔ Only keep in established tanks with robust pod colonies
✔ Supplement with live copepods if natural supply is low
✔ Provide plenty of live rock and hiding spaces
✔ Avoid competitive feeders or aggressive tankmates
✔ Keep stress low and maintain stable parameters
Compatibility:
Very peaceful and reef-safe. Excellent with other gentle species such as gobies, blennies, clownfish, and small wrasses. Avoid predatory or boisterous species that may outcompete them.
Availability:
Occasionally available in the Australian aquarium trade, often sold as juveniles. Wild-caught specimens require careful acclimation and a pod-rich system for long-term success.
Disclaimer:
As live animals, Mandarin Scooter Blennies may vary in size, colouration, and behaviour depending on age, diet, and environment.