Scooter Dragonet (Synchiropus ocellatus)

 

• Small fish safe: ✅ Yes

• Small invert safe: ✅ Yes

• Coral safe: ✅ Yes

• Minimum tank size: 110 liters (30 gallons)

• Adult size: Up to 10 cm (4 inches)

• Diet: Carnivorous, primarily feeding on copepods and other small crustaceans

• Be aware of: Requires a well-established aquarium with a healthy population of live microfauna; may be challenging to feed in captivity

 

Appearance and Coloration

The Scooter Dragonet, also known as the Ocellated Dragonet, exhibits a mottled pattern of brown and white with subtle red highlights. Males are typically more vibrant and possess a larger, sail-like first dorsal fin. Their unique morphology includes a broad, flattened head and large, fan-like pectoral fins that aid in their distinctive “scooting” movement along the substrate.

 

Natural Habitat and Behaviour

Synchiropus ocellatus is indigenous to the Southwest Pacific Ocean, ranging from southern Japan to the Marquesan Islands. They inhabit shallow, tropical waters, favoring sandy lagoons and rocky reefs. In their natural environment, Scooter Dragonets are benthic dwellers, spending their time foraging among the substrate for small invertebrates. They are generally solitary but can be found in loose congregations without exhibiting schooling behaviour.

 

Tank Requirements and Water Parameters

• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (110 liters)

• Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 24°C – 27°C (75°F – 80°F)

• pH: 8.1 – 8.4

• Specific Gravity: 1.020 – 1.025

• Aquascaping:

• Incorporate ample live rock and a mature sand bed to support microfauna populations.

• Provide numerous hiding spots and open areas for foraging.

• Lighting: Moderate; standard reef lighting is suitable.

• Water Movement: Moderate flow, replicating natural reef conditions.

 

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, Scooter Dragonets primarily consume small crustaceans such as copepods. In captivity:

• Captive Diet:

• A well-established aquarium with a robust population of copepods and other microfauna is essential.

• Some individuals may adapt to consuming frozen or prepared foods, but this is not guaranteed. 

• Feeding Frequency: Due to their continuous foraging nature, ensure a constant availability of food sources.

 

Compatibility and Social Structure

• Temperament:

• Generally peaceful and non-aggressive.

• Males can be territorial toward other males; it’s advisable to keep only one male per tank unless in a sufficiently large system.

• Tank Mates:

• Compatible with other peaceful species such as small gobies, blennies, and cardinalfish.

• Avoid housing with aggressive or fast-feeding species that may outcompete them for food.

• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or larger invertebrates.

 

Important Considerations

• Feeding Challenges: Due to their specialized diet, Scooter Dragonets can be difficult to feed in captivity. A mature tank with a thriving microfauna population is crucial for their sustenance. 

• Tank Maturity: Introduce this species only into well-established aquariums to ensure adequate natural food availability.

• Behavioral Observations: Monitor for signs of malnutrition or stress, such as lethargy or weight loss, and ensure they are not being outcompeted for food.