Scooter Blenny (Synchiropus Stellatus)

Care Level : Difficult

Temperament : Peaceful

Color : Grey

Diet : Carnivore

Reef Compatible : Yes

Water Conditions : sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4

Max. Size : 3"

Origin : Sri Lanka, Maldives 

Family : Callionymidae

Minimum Tank Size : 30 gallons

The Red Scooter Dragonet (Synchiropus Stellatus) is also referred to as the Starry Dragonet or Stellate Dragonet.

Its body is a mottling of red and white with large dark spots. The sexes can be easily determined by observing the dorsal fins: in females it will be very small and subtle, but in males it will be exceptionally impressive when in full display. Like a huge, vibrant sail, the male’s dorsal fin is adorned with dramatic stripes and eye spots. They use this dorsal fin to attract potential female mates and to intimidate competing males. Red Scooter Dragonet grow to a maximum size of 3 inches.

It prefers a reef aquarium of 30 gallons or larger with lots of live rock to hide in and graze from. The substrate should be live sand and the aquarium should have docile inhabitants. More than one of its species may be kept, and it is best to introduce them all to the tank at the same time. The ratio should be 2 or 3 females per male. A 55 gallon or larger aquarium is required if more than one male is to be kept.

The Red Scooter Dragonet diet should consist of brine shrimp, bloodworms and glassworms, and small invertebrates. They are slow-moving, deliberate feeders and should not have to compete for their food.