mandarin

[nemo1991]

i found somewho who has one, that eats mysis, shrimp, will it survive, if i just keep feeding him that? or are there other reasons for that fish being difficult?

[missionsix66]

Even healthy looking/eating mandarins could die of starvation. Alot of times already past the point of no recovery. It's a gamble getting one. A mandarin that's eating frozen is better than one that's not. I'd still recommend having an ample pod population. They are grazers, continually searching/eating food all day and night.

[missionsix66]

Originally Posted by missionsix66

Even healthy looking/eating mandarins could die of starvation. Alot of times already past the point of no recovery. It's a gamble getting one. A mandarin that's eating frozen is better than one that's not. I'd still recommend having an ample pod population. They are grazers, continually searching/eating food all day and night.

This may help you out FOTM- May 08' Mandarin Goby, Green Goby-Fish of the Month - Page 2-3reef Forums

[ollie51]

totally agree w/ mission if you dont have a good supply of copepods in your tank dont get one, you may get lucky & get one to eat frozen mysis but why take the chance

[wareagle35031]

FOTM- May 08' Mandarin Goby, Green Goby

might wanna check this out

[bmshehan]

Your tank should be a year old as a rule of thumb. I want one so bad I can't stand it but i have another 6 months to go... I'll ride it out, I'm not rushing ANYTHING when it comes to my tank.

[nemo1991]

well i bought the tank like 3 or so months ago, but it was 2 years established.....soo...possibley? ahha

[spartan]

i have found mandarins to be overly hyped as hard to keep. i have had or known 5 people now that have ordered them online and kept them without problem. The key is to use cyclo/chopped mysis with targeted baster squirts right in front of them (slow velocity). feed them twice a day and slightly overfeed and aim for some crevices so that they can graze the rest of the day. theyre not easy but if you take the time everyone I have known comes around (assuming they are healthy and eating from before).

[wildreef]

Originally Posted by missionsix66

Even healthy looking/eating mandarins could die of starvation. Alot of times already past the point of no recovery. It's a gamble getting one. A mandarin that's eating frozen is better than one that's not. I'd still recommend having an ample pod population. They are grazers, continually searching/eating food all day and night.

I totally agree' they can be hardy fish, but their so specialized of their feeding habits.
i wouldint even try one unless ya had a 100 gallon tank, they graze constantly and deplete a tank of what they need to prosper.
but an absoulutely beautiful fish though.

[nemo1991]

yeah, i dont think i will attempt for a little, good thing i am upgrading to a 135