Other Marine

Mandarinfish

Synchiropus splendidus

Rare in Nepaladvancedreef safe

The most psychedelic fish in the sea — and one of the hardest to keep alive. Mandarins starve without dense live copepod populations.

Difficulty

advanced

Adult size

Up to 8 cm

Temperament

Peaceful and slow

Minimum tank

120+ litres, mature reef

Diet

Copepods and live foods — a mature tank with a thriving pod population is mandatory

Lifespan

4–10 years

Water parameters

Species-specific requirements override general saltwater guidelines.

Quiet rubble zones of the western Pacific

Mature reef (6+ months) with a refugium strongly recommended. Never add to a new tank, even a large one.

We list only species that can be sourced responsibly. Availability in Nepal varies — confirm current stock before planning a build.

Rarely imported and demanding; on-request for mature reef systems only.

Good company

Keep with caution

“Caution” reflects likely aggression or predation — outcome depends on tank size, order of addition and individual temperament.

Equipment matched to a 120+ litres, mature reef+ saltwater system.