Mandarin questions...

[jgvergo]

I'm thinking of getting a Mandarin, but I want to be responsible about it. In particular, I'm sensitive to the fact that they can starve under the wrong conditions. My questions:

1) Is there a minimum tank size? Since Mandarins are known for decimating pod populations, I assume a larger tank will provide the opportunity for the a pod population to reproduce at a rate that will keep a Mandarin healthily.

2) I have a Copperband Butterfly that *seems* to be constantly hunting pods. How does that figure into the answer to the first question?

3) If I have an 85 gallon tank, do I need to replenish my pods on a regular basis? If so, how often?

Thanks in Advance!!

 

[Angel_Anthias lover]

1) not necessarily, but bigger will increase chances of success, i have one in a 30 gallon tank for almost 2 years, and one in a 70 gallon tank for almost 3 years, so mine dont necessarily follow the trend.

2)having a mandarin will add competition to the copperband however, if your tank is mature and you have a refugium there will most likely be enough and a healthy enough population for success

3) adding pods every so often is something i always do, and it is recommended. However if you have a refugium that is healthy and a wellmature tank, you wont have to replenish as regularly, maybe every other month or so

 

[sp1187]

From a fellow member here....
https://www.saltwatersmarts.com/paul-b-unique-perspective-on-keeping-mandarinfish-saltwater-6922/

 

[sde1500]

I had one for over a year in my 65 gallon that also houses a Melanurus wrasse. It was very fat, til it decided to jump out one day. I cultured pods for it for a while before giving up due to time constraints and never saw an issue with it not finding food. I think you'd be fine, without needing to add pods.

 

[NowGlazeIT]

No need for a minimum tank size, no need for pods. All you need is a feeder and diverse small particle foods such as; baby brine/oyster eggs/ baby mysis. Best of all for mine were ocean nutrition’s CYCLOPS. When you receive your mandarin, place it alone in a qt with the feeder. This will train the fish of where their food comes from. Then be sure to feed at least 5 times a day. I am glad someone posted that article of Paul b’s. The picture of his female mandarin gave me relief, I thought my female was constantly pregnant like boni from family guy.