Green Mandarin Fish
The head and body of the Green Mandarin, also known as the Striped Mandarinfish or Green Mandarinfish, are a mazelike combination of blue, orange, and green. Males may be distinguished from females by their more-elongated first dorsal spine. It is extremely popular with aquarists because of its unusual beauty.
It should be kept in a well-established 30 gallon or larger aquarium with live rock, live sand, and plenty of hiding places. It is moderately hardy in reef aquariums if given special care. It is not overly aggressive towards other fish, except for conspecifics.
The Green Mandarin has been known to spawn successfully in an aquarium.
It feeds on a variety of vitamin-enriched live brine shrimp, live black worms, and natural prey on live rock and live sand.
| Key Features |
|---|
| Coloration: Blue, orange, and green |
| Size: Up to 4 inches |
| Aggression Level: Moderate (only towards same species) |
| Water Conditions: Stable saltwater, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 75–82°F |
| Compatibility: Best with non-aggressive, slow-moving fish |
FAQ
What is the ideal tank size for a Green Mandarin?
A well-established 30 gallon or larger aquarium is recommended to provide enough space and hiding places.
How can I tell if my Green Mandarin is male or female?
Males have a more-elongated first dorsal spine compared to females.
What does the Green Mandarin eat?
It feeds on vitamin-enriched live brine shrimp, live black worms, and natural prey found on live rock and live sand.
Keith Jones –
The Green Mandarin is a stunning addition to my reef tank. Its vibrant colors stand out in the display. I’ve kept it for over a year and it’s very active and peaceful. It enjoys the live brine shrimp I offer and doesn’t bother other fish. The only thing to note is it needs a mature tank with plenty of hiding spots.
Caroline Hodges –
Beautiful fish with unique color patterns. I was cautious about adding it due to its size and temperament, but it’s actually quite calm. It does need a large tank with live rock and sand. Feeding it live shrimp keeps it healthy and active.
Charles Underwood –
I bought this fish for my saltwater setup and it has become a centerpiece. The color change from blue to green is striking. It’s not aggressive and coexists well with my clownfish and gobies. Spawning has not occurred yet, but I’m hopeful.