Common name: Blue-spotted Ruddertail Dragonet

General Information

The Blue-spotted Ruddertail Dragonet, scientifically known as Callionymus pleurostictus, is a fascinating species that adds unique charm to marine aquariums. Known for its intricate pattern of spots and elongated body, this dragonet is a visual delight. Although not as popular as its cousin, the Mandarin Dragonet, the Blue-spotted Ruddertail Dragonet has a dedicated following among aquarists who appreciate its subtle beauty and interesting behavior.

While not commonly found in the aquarium trade, the Blue-spotted Ruddertail Dragonet is admired for its role in keeping the substrate clean by sifting through sand in search of food. This behavior makes it a valuable addition to reef tanks, as it helps maintain the tank's ecosystem balance.

Care

Caring for the Blue-spotted Ruddertail Dragonet requires attention to detail, as they thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock and sandy substrate. These fish are best suited for experienced aquarists who can meet their specific dietary needs. A tank with a mature refugium that produces copepods is ideal, as these tiny crustaceans form a significant part of the dragonet’s diet.

The Blue-spotted Ruddertail Dragonet requires a minimum tank size of about 200 liters (50 gallons) to provide ample space for foraging. Ensure the tank has stable water parameters and a gentle flow, mimicking their natural environment.

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, Blue-spotted Ruddertail Dragonets are carnivorous, feeding primarily on small crustaceans and invertebrates. In captivity, they require a diet rich in live foods such as copepods, amphipods, and occasionally enriched brine shrimp or mysis shrimp. Providing a continuous supply of live food is crucial, as they may not readily accept frozen or prepared foods.

Feed the Blue-spotted Ruddertail Dragonet multiple times a day, ensuring they have access to live food throughout the day. This feeding regimen supports their active foraging behavior and helps maintain their health.

Behavior and Compatibility

Blue-spotted Ruddertail Dragonets are generally peaceful and can coexist with other non-aggressive tank mates. They are bottom dwellers, spending much of their time sifting through the substrate. Their peaceful nature makes them suitable for community tanks with other reef-safe species.

These dragonets are not known to produce toxins, but care should be taken to avoid housing them with aggressive or predatory species that may outcompete them for food. Keeping them with species that have similar dietary requirements can help ensure they receive adequate nutrition.

Health and Common Issues

With proper care, Blue-spotted Ruddertail Dragonets can live several years in captivity. Maintaining a stable environment with plenty of live food is essential to their health and longevity. When choosing a Blue-spotted Ruddertail Dragonet, look for individuals that are active and have clear, vibrant patterns.

Common health issues include malnutrition due to inadequate food supply. Ensuring a constant source of live food and monitoring their feeding habits can prevent this problem. Regular tank maintenance and monitoring water quality also help prevent stress-related illnesses.

Habitat

The Blue-spotted Ruddertail Dragonet is native to the Indo-Pacific region, typically found in sandy and rubble areas of coral reefs. They prefer shallow waters where they can easily forage for food among the substrate. In captivity, replicating these conditions with a sandy substrate and ample live rock will help them thrive.