Starry Dragonet (Synchiropus stellatus) Care Guide
Synchiropus stellatus is an Indian Ocean dragonet of coastal reefs reaching about 7.5 cm, a benthic invertebrate feeder.
Overview
Synchiropus stellatus, the starry dragonet, was described by Smith in 1963. It is a small dragonet of the family Callionymidae reaching a maximum total length of about 7.5 cm. The body is mottled pink or gold above with silvery spots between dark stellate blotches.
Taxonomy
- Family: Callionymidae
- Genus: Synchiropus
- Scientific name: Synchiropus stellatus Smith, 1963
- Common names: Starry dragonet, stellate dragonet
Habitat
According to FishBase, the species occurs in the Indian Ocean from East Africa to Sumatra, Indonesia, including oceanic islands. It inhabits coastal, protected reefs on rubble or algal-covered rocks at depths of 5-40 m, typically 10-20 m. FishBase notes it is replaced by Synchiropus moyeri in the Western Pacific.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L (21 gal)
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Carbonate hardness: 8-12 °dGH
- Maximum size: about 7.5 cm total length (FishBase)
- Lifespan: 4-10 years
- Requires a mature system with abundant live copepods
Diet
FishBase gives a trophic level of about 3.3, consistent with a carnivorous diet of small benthic invertebrates. In aquaria it grazes continuously on copepods and other micro-fauna and depends on a mature, established system.
Compatibility
This is a peaceful, bottom-dwelling species. It is best kept with calm tankmates that do not compete for live food, and away from aggressive fishes and predators.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2022).