Fin's Fish Guide
The Green spot mandarin (Synchiropus picturatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Callionymidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The spotted mandarin is a small, exceptionally colourful fish of the family Callionymidae (dragonets) from the western Pacific. The species reaches only about 7 cm and has a green body with handsome blue-and-black-ringed eye-spots. It lives on sandy bottoms of shallow, sheltered reefs and shelters among rubble below living coral, where it occurs in loose groups. The diet consists of small bottom invertebrates. The skin secretes an unpalatable, toxic mucus that deters predators. The species is popular in the marine aquarium trade but difficult to feed.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Green spot mandarin?
The Green spot mandarin has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly multicoloured and shows a spots pattern. Brightly coloured with poisonous, unpalatable skin mucus that deters predators; popular in the marine aquarium trade.
Where does the Green spot mandarin live?
The Green spot mandarin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Pacific, on shallow sheltered reefs.
How big does the Green spot mandarin get?
The Green spot mandarin grows to a maximum of about 7 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Green spot mandarin dangerous to humans?
The Green spot mandarin is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The skin secretes a toxic, unpalatable mucus. Usually harmless to touch, but wash your hands after handling and do not eat the fish; avoid contact with eyes or wounds.
Is the Green spot mandarin edible?
The Green spot mandarin is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Synchiropus
More from the family Callionymidae
Want the complete picture on the Green spot mandarin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Green spot mandarin is one of 12,519 species in the app.