Fin's Fish Guide
The Common dragonet (Callionymus lyra) is a saltwater fish of the family Callionymidae that grows up to 31 cm.
Eastern Atlantic from Norway to West Africa, with the North Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, on sandy bottoms.
Description
The common dragonet is a flattened bottom fish of the family Callionymidae reaching about 30 cm. The species shows a strong colour difference between the sexes: females and juveniles are inconspicuously sandy-brown and spotted, while breeding males are bright yellow with blue stripes and spots and a greatly elongated, sail-like first dorsal fin. The broad, flat head has the eyes on top. The species lives on sandy bottoms of the eastern Atlantic, the North Sea and the Mediterranean, from shallow water to several hundred metres. On the bottom it searches for small crustaceans, worms and molluscs. In the breeding season the male performs a conspicuous courtship dance. It has no fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common dragonet?
The Common dragonet has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Flattened bottom fish; ripe males are bright yellow with blue stripes and a greatly elongated, sail-like first dorsal fin.
Where does the Common dragonet live?
The Common dragonet lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic from Norway to West Africa, with the North Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, on sandy bottoms.
How big does the Common dragonet get?
The Common dragonet grows to a maximum of about 31 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Common dragonet dangerous to humans?
No, the Common dragonet is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Common dragonet edible?
The Common dragonet is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Common dragonet and live in the same waters.
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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 Common dragonet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common dragonet is one of 12,519 species in the app.