Golden Mandarin Fish is an East Asian freshwater predator with irregular dark spots on its head and sides. A 2023 review found no records of it living wild in the United States. It is also called Leopard Mandarin Fish.
Appearance
Appearance
The fish has a broad mouth, a slightly projecting lower jaw, and irregular dark spots on the head and sides. The tail fin has a rounded edge.
Where it lives
Typical habitats
Rivers in East Asia
Lakes in East Asia
Range
It is native to Korea, China, and Vietnam. A 2023 review found no wild U.S. records, though it is present in the U.S. aquarium trade.
Preferred conditions
In its native range, it uses clearer water with some current and places to shelter among rocks.
Behavior
Diet
In its native range, adults eat smaller fish, shrimp, and other crustaceans.
Name and classification
About the name
The bright yellow fish called hwangssogari in Korea is a color form of this species, not a separate species.
Conservation
IUCN Red List
DDData Deficient·Not enough data yet to assess
Culture and stories
Culture and stories
In Korea, this fish has long appeared in art and food traditions.