Mandarin Goby / Mandarinfish

The Mandarin Goby fish, known scientifically as Synchiropus splendidus, is native to the warm Pacific waters between Japan and Australia. Sometimes called mandarinfish or dragonets, they belong to the Callionymidae family. These fish populate sandy lagoons and coral reefs, enjoying warm shallow water and abundant food supplies.

Despite their vivid coloration, the fish is difficult to spot in the wild because it’s a small bottom dweller, adapted to hiding among the rocks and coral. Many saltwater aquarists love the Mandarin Goby due to its coloration and longevity.