Ruby Red Dragonet

The Ruby Red Dragonet, *Synchiropus sycorax*, is a captivating and relatively new addition to the aquarium trade, prized for its stunning coloration and peaceful demeanor. Its body is a vibrant, almost iridescent ruby red, often with subtle darker markings or spots. The fins are typically edged in blue or purple, adding to its visual appeal. Unlike many fish, dragonets lack scales, giving them a smooth, almost velvety appearance.

A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended for a single Ruby Red Dragonet, with larger tanks preferred for pairs or community settings. A mature aquarium with a thriving population of copepods and amphipods is essential, as these are their primary food source in the wild. Live rock and a deep sand bed provide crucial foraging grounds and hiding places. They are generally peaceful and can be kept with other docile fish, but care should be taken to avoid housing them with aggressive or fast-feeding tank mates that would outcompete them for food.

In the aquarium, the Ruby Red Dragonet typically reaches a size of around 2 to 3 inches. They are micro-predators, constantly sifting through the substrate and live rock for small invertebrates. While they may eventually accept frozen mysis shrimp or enriched brine shrimp, a consistent supply of live copepods and amphipods is crucial for their long-term health and survival. Hobbyists often supplement their tanks with live cultures of these organisms.

Distinguishing between male and female Ruby Red Dragonets can be challenging, although males may exhibit slightly more elaborate dorsal fins. Breeding in captivity is difficult and rarely achieved by hobbyists. They are not considered reef-safe as they may pick at small invertebrates, but they are generally not a threat to corals.