The Finger dragonet (Dactylopus dactylopus) is a saltwater fish of the family Callionymidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The fingered dragonet is a dragonet from the western Pacific and the Indo-Australian Archipelago. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a flattened body and conspicuous, finger-like detached first rays of the pelvic fins with which it 'walks' over the bottom. Males have a tall first dorsal fin. As a bottom-dweller it lives on sandy and muddy bottoms of coastal and reef areas and searches for small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Finger dragonet?
The Finger dragonet has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern.
Where does the Finger dragonet live?
The Finger dragonet lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Finger dragonet get?
The Finger dragonet grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Finger dragonet dangerous to humans?
No, the Finger dragonet is harmless to humans.
Is the Finger dragonet edible?
The Finger dragonet is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Dactylopus
More from the family Callionymidae
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