Fin's Fish Guide
The Blacktail dartfish (Ptereleotris heteroptera) is a saltwater fish of the family Microdesmidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Solomon Is., Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel) and others
Description
The Blacktail dartfish is a dartfish (Microdesmidae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 14 cm and has an elongate, blue body. The light-blue body has a conspicuous dark spot on the tail. It hovers just above sand and rubble bottoms near reefs and darts into a burrow at lightning speed when threatened; it eats zooplankton from the current. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blacktail dartfish?
The Blacktail dartfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly blue.
Where does the Blacktail dartfish live?
The Blacktail dartfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Solomon Is., Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel) and others
How big does the Blacktail dartfish get?
The Blacktail dartfish grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Blacktail dartfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blacktail dartfish 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 Blacktail dartfish edible?
Yes, the Blacktail dartfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ptereleotris
More from the family Microdesmidae
Want the complete picture on the Blacktail dartfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blacktail dartfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.