Fin's Fish Guide
The Australian darter dragonet (Callionymus macdonaldi) is a saltwater fish of the family Callionymidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The Australian darter dragonet is a small dragonet from the waters around southern Australia. The species grows to about 6 cm and has a flattened body with a flat head, high-set eyes and a spotted camouflage. On the gill cover it bears a strong spine. As a bottom-dweller it lives on sand and rubble bottoms of shallow coastal water to about 90 metres and moves forward in short darts in search of small crustaceans and worms. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Australian darter dragonet?
The Australian darter dragonet has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Flat head with an opercular spine; small hopping bottom dragonet
Where does the Australian darter dragonet live?
The Australian darter dragonet lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southern Australia
How big does the Australian darter dragonet get?
The Australian darter dragonet grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Australian darter dragonet dangerous to humans?
No, the Australian darter dragonet is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Australian darter dragonet edible?
The Australian darter dragonet is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Callionymus
More from the family Callionymidae
Want the complete picture on the Australian darter dragonet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Australian darter dragonet is one of 12,519 species in the app.