Mandarin Fish in Komodo – Nature’s Living Artwork

Belonging to the dragonet family, mandarin fish are small bottom-dwellers that glide close to the reef in short, fluttery movements. Despite their size — only 6–7 cm — they stand out thanks to:

• Intense blue markings created by unique pigment cells rather than reflection.
• Bright orange and green patches forming a complex, ornamental pattern.
• Fleshy, wing-like fins that give them a “hovering” look as they move.

In the wild, they can live around 10–15 years and are often seen in tiny groups of 2–5 fish, hiding among coral rubble and branching corals.

Habitat

Mandarin fish are mostly found in the Indo-Pacific, in sheltered:

• Shallow lagoons and bays
• Protected fringing reefs
• Coral rubble zones near staghorn corals and branching structures

These areas provide them with abundant hiding spots and a steady supply of tiny prey.

Feeding

Mandarin fish are picky micro-predators. Their diet is made up of:

• Small microcrustaceans
• Tiny worms and copepods
• Other minute invertebrates living among the rubble

They spend most of their time hopping from rock to rock, picking at the substrate with quick, precise movements — behaviour that makes them hypnotic to watch on a dive.

As the sun sets, the mandarin fish gather at specific spots on the reef:

• Females arrive in small groups and wait among the corals.
• Males patrol the area alone, displaying their colors and fins.
• Rival males often engage in small displays or “duels”.

Usually, the largest or most dominant male wins and is chosen by the female for spawning.

Once a pair is formed, the real magic begins:

• The male and female link their pelvic fins.
• They slowly rise together above the reef in a spiralling dance.
• At the top of the ascent, they release clouds of gametes into the water column.
• Fertilisation happens in open water, then the pair quickly separates and dives back into the corals.

The larvae hatch in about 24 hours and grow into juveniles over roughly two weeks, eventually choosing a rubble patch where they will spend the rest of their lives.

Mandarin Dives with Dragon Dive Komodo

If you have always dreamed of seeing mandarin fish, our guides know the exact coral rubble areas where they gather at dusk.

• Special dusk dives focused on mandarin fish behaviour.
• Small groups to limit disturbance and improve sightings.
• Briefings on ideal positioning and light use to respect the animals.

When to Dive for Mandarins

For the best chance of seeing the full mating ritual, timing matters:

• Arrive on site before sunset and stay at least 30–40 minutes.
• Use a red light when possible to minimise disturbance.
• Move slowly and stay low, avoiding sudden fin kicks.

Our guides will position you carefully so you can watch their courtship without stressing the fish or damaging the delicate coral habitat.

Camera Settings & Gear

• Use a macro lens to capture details of the patterns and eyes.
• Prepare for low-light conditions at dusk: open aperture and adjust ISO carefully.
• Use a focus light with red mode if possible to avoid spooking the fish.

In-Water Behaviour

• Practice excellent buoyancy and frog kicks to avoid stirring the sand.
• Stay patient and hold the same position; let the fish come into your frame.
• Avoid chasing individuals — you’ll see more if you wait quietly near their favourite coral heads.

Our guides can point out which coral structures are most likely to host mandarins so you know exactly where to aim your lens.