Fin's Fish Guide
The Cape dragonet (Paracallionymus costatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Callionymidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The Cape dragonet is a small dragonet from the waters around southern Africa. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a flattened body with a flat head and high-set eyes, well suited to life on the bottom. On the gill cover it bears a strong spine. As a bottom-dweller it lives on sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf and slope, between about 37 and 457 metres, and searches for 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 Cape dragonet?
The Cape dragonet has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Flattened head with high-set eyes and an opercular spine; bottom-living dragonet
Where does the Cape dragonet live?
The Cape dragonet lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southern Africa
How big does the Cape dragonet get?
The Cape dragonet grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Cape dragonet dangerous to humans?
No, the Cape 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 Cape dragonet edible?
The Cape dragonet is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Cape dragonet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cape dragonet is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Callionymidae
Want the complete picture on the Cape dragonet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cape dragonet is one of 12,519 species in the app.