Fin's Fish Guide
The Dwarf fusilier (Dipterygonotus balteatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Caesionidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The mottled fusilier is a fusilier (Caesionidae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species is small and slender with a silvery, streamlined body, adapted to a fast, schooling life in open water. It is primarily a near-shore pelagic species that swims mainly in open water away from reefs and forms dense schools, often mixed with other small schooling fishes. It feeds on zooplankton carried by the current. It is a prey fish for larger predators. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dwarf fusilier?
The Dwarf fusilier has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender, schooling fusilier that lives in open water away from the reefs.
Where does the Dwarf fusilier live?
The Dwarf fusilier lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; inshore open water.
How big does the Dwarf fusilier get?
The Dwarf fusilier grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Dwarf fusilier dangerous to humans?
No, the Dwarf fusilier is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Dwarf fusilier edible?
The Dwarf fusilier is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Caesionidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dwarf fusilier is one of 12,519 species in the app.