Description
Scarlet Scooter Blenny (Synchiropus sycorax)
Overview
The Scarlet Scooter Blenny, also known as the Ruby Red Dragonet, is a small, brilliantly coloured marine fish prized for its deep red body, iridescent blue spots, and distinctive dragonet shape. Despite its name, it’s not a true blenny but belongs to the dragonet family. Reaching only 5–6 cm (2–2.5 inches), this species is peaceful and shy, making it a favourite for nano to medium reef aquariums. However, it has specialised feeding needs and requires a mature system to thrive.
Origin
Native to the Indo-Pacific, particularly around the Philippines. It inhabits shallow reef flats and rubble zones, spending most of its time hopping along the substrate in search of tiny prey.
Feeding
In the wild, it feeds almost exclusively on copepods, amphipods, and other microfauna. In captivity, diet is the biggest challenge:
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A well-established reef with a strong, self-sustaining copepod population is essential
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May accept live foods such as enriched baby brine shrimp or live copepods
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Some individuals can be trained to take frozen mysis, cyclops, or prepared micro-pellets, but success varies
Frequent, small feedings are necessary if it does not rely solely on natural grazing.
Tank Mates
Peaceful and best kept with other gentle reef species. Suitable companions include:
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Gobies
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Small wrasses (non-aggressive, non-competitive feeders)
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Clownfish
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Cardinalfish
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Peaceful invertebrates (shrimps, snails, corals)
Avoid aggressive feeders (e.g., large wrasses, dottybacks) that will outcompete them for food.
Aggression
Peaceful. Generally non-aggressive toward tank mates, though males may squabble with other dragonets. Best kept singly unless in a proven male-female pair.
Experience Level
Advanced. Due to its reliance on live microfauna, this species requires a mature aquarium (at least 6 months old, ideally 1 year+) with a refugium or pod culture. It is not recommended for beginners.
Water Parameters
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Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F)
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pH: 8.1–8.4
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Salinity: 1.023–1.026 SG
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Hardness (dKH): 8–12
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Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons (115L) with a thriving pod population; larger tanks support long-term success
Provide sandy or rubble substrate, gentle flow, and plenty of live rock for pod colonies.
Reef Compatibility
Reef safe. Completely safe with corals and invertebrates, making it an excellent choice for reef aquariums if feeding requirements can be met.
