Polyamorous Mandarins

Diggy Desai · Issue 132, May/Jun 2023 · pp. 58–59

Products mentioned: Canon 1DX Mark III, 100mm Macro lens, Olympus TG-6

As a young kid, I recollect how small little kaleidoscopes were sold outside the Gateway of India. Little colourful broken pieces of glass bangles would twist and dance into formations. A complete wonder & treat to the eyes. Now imagine my surprise when a tiny little fish reminded me of similar colours. The mandarin fish (dragonet family) Synchiropus splendidus is one of the most colourful denizens of the ocean. Mandarin was a name given after the colourful robes worn by bureaucrats during the Chinese imperial period. These bohemian- coloured fish put on a very special 20-minute show each evening for diving spectators. I have titled the show “Polyamorous” which you will realize fits in aptly as you read further. And what a fine show it is! Chances are you may completely miss the climax if not extremely attentive. No worries though, as the show repeats every evening at the same time, with…