Red Scooter Blenner/Starry Dragonet (Synchiropus stellatus)

 

• Small fish safe: ✅ Yes

• Small invert safe: ✅ Yes

• Coral safe: ✅ Yes

• Minimum tank size: 75 liters (20 gallons)

• Adult size: Up to 7.5 cm (3 inches)

• Diet: Carnivorous, primarily feeding on small invertebrates such as copepods

• 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 Starry Dragonet is a small, vibrant fish characterized by a light pink body adorned with diffuse brownish-pink spots. Its prominent head features protruding eyes, an adaptation that facilitates its habit of burying itself in the substrate, especially at night. Males are distinguished by a more developed anterior dorsal fin, which displays a star-like pattern. 

 

Natural Habitat and Behavior

Synchiropus stellatus is native to the Indian Ocean, with populations found around Mozambique, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia. It inhabits sandy and rubble substrates of coral reefs, where it spends its days foraging for small crustaceans. This species is solitary by nature; males are territorial and typically only tolerate females within their domain. At night, the Starry Dragonet often buries itself in the substrate as a protective behavior. 

 

Tank Requirements and Water Parameters

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)

• Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 22°C – 26°C (72°F – 78°F)

• pH: 8.1 – 8.4

• Specific Gravity: 1.020 – 1.025

• Aquascaping:

• Provide ample live rock and a mature sand substrate to support microfauna populations.

• Ensure the presence of hiding spots and open areas for foraging.

• Lighting: Moderate; standard reef lighting is suitable.

• Water Movement: Moderate flow, mimicking natural reef environments.

 

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, Starry Dragonets feed on small invertebrates, primarily 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, especially 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, Starry 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.

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