Mandarinfish

Mandarinfish

Synchiropus splendidus

Least Concern
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DESCRIPTION

The Mandarin Fish is one of the most colorful reef fish in the world, instantly recognizable by its vibrant blue, orange and green patterns. It inhabits sheltered coral reefs and lagoons across the Indo-Pacific, where it spends the day searching the seabed for tiny crustaceans and other invertebrates. Although relatively common, its small size, shy behavior and preference for hiding among coral make every encounter a special experience for divers and underwater photographers.

Max Length 10 cm
Max Weight 9 g
Lifespan 10 - 15 years
Habitat Seabed, coastal zone, and coral reef
Depth Range 1 - 18 m
Diet Specialized
Activity Diurnal
Social Behavior Mixed behavour
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Mandarinfish

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely

Other destinations to spot Mandarinfish

Range

Where Mandarinfish has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Mandarinfish

Where can you see the Mandarinfish?

The Mandarinfish can be seen at 13 dive destinations in 7 countries. The best spots include Anilao (Philippines), Malapascua (Philippines), Abu Dabbab (Egypt), Apo Reef (Philippines), and Gili Islands (Indonesia).

What is the best time to see the Mandarinfish?

Sightings of the Mandarinfish peak at different times depending on the destination: Koh Tao from June to September, Lembeh Strait from June to September, and Mabul from June to September.

Can you see the Mandarinfish all year round?

Yes. At Anilao and Malapascua, the Mandarinfish is seen all year round.

Where can you see the Mandarinfish in Philippines?

In Philippines, you can see the Mandarinfish at Anilao, Malapascua, and Apo Reef.

Where can you see the Mandarinfish in Indonesia?

In Indonesia, you can see the Mandarinfish at Gili Islands, Lembeh Strait, and Raja Ampat.

Where can you see the Mandarinfish in Egypt?

In Egypt, you can see the Mandarinfish at Abu Dabbab and Hurghada.

How big does the Mandarinfish get?

The Mandarinfish can reach up to 10 cm in length and 9 g in weight.

What habitat does the Mandarinfish live in?

The Mandarinfish is found in these habitats: seabed, coastal zone, and coral reef.

How deep does the Mandarinfish live?

The Mandarinfish lives between 1 and 18 m deep.

What does the Mandarinfish eat?

Depends on a narrow, particular diet, often a single prey type or family, which binds it closely to one habitat.

When is the Mandarinfish most active?

Active during daylight hours. Morning and midday dives are your best chance to see it moving and feeding.

How long does the Mandarinfish live?

The Mandarinfish lives 10 to 15 years.

What is the conservation status of the Mandarinfish?

The Mandarinfish is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Mandarinfish. Spotted something that looks off?

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