Can I keep a Mandarin?

I am fully aware of the requirements needed to keep a Mandarin so my question is more directed to the size of my pod population and compatibility with current tank residents. I am not sure how to measure pod numbers, but I do know that whenever I go to use my Mag float (about every other day) there are usually a dozen or so pods living in it. Also my main concerns with my other fish are my Hawk and Purple Pseudochromis, and possibly my Tomato Clown. Im pretty sure the Tangs will leave it alone. So tell me what you think 3reef and as always any info is much appreciated.

 

the one i would worry about the most picking is the hawk fish. Also i know some hawks will snack on pods too but with your setup and fuge i would say you could handle one. Just gotta be careful that its not picked on.

 

Your setup sounds like it can handle a mandarin. They do hide a lot so as long as you have adequate rocks and caves, it should be ok. Your tank is large enough where it should be able to find a nice home.

 

GuitarMan89 mentioned that new mandarins from ORA eat prepared foods. As far as pod population, I read that you can build "pod piles". I also read you want a well established tank with 50+lbs of LR. You have a fuge and a big tank so it looks promising. I was looking at getting one and did some research but decided not to at thais time. I'm no expert on Mandarins and copepods but sure more reefers will chime in. Google mandarins and breeding copepods...awsome fish, hope you can pull it off.

Brian

 

Thanks for the responses everyone. Im leaning towards giving it a shot its been awhile since Ive added any new fish so I was just tossing some ideas around in my head. Theres prob 150lbs of rock and the tank is pretty stable so I guess Ill just have to keep an eye on the Hawk. Im pretty sure he killed my Fire Shrimp so I hope hes not a blood thirsty maniac haha either way if I do decide on a mandarin Ill be sure to post plenty of pics

 

You shouldn't have any issues, but my first try with a mandarin was not successful with about 250g of water, a fuge, and tons of LR in a tank that's been up for about a year, with LR from my 90g that was going for years before that.

Sometimes it takes a couple tries.

 

Well if we dont try well never know right Horkn, thanks for the warning though Im not 100% on it yet anyway just fishing ideas

 

Why not try a ORA Captive breed Mandarin, the eat pellets and can be in small tanks without issue.