Fin's Fish Guide
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. Finger-like pelvic fin rays for walking over the bottom
Where does the Finger dragonet live?
The Finger dragonet lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Pacific
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. 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 Finger dragonet edible?
The Finger dragonet is not usually eaten.
More photos
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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
Want the complete picture on the Finger dragonet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Finger dragonet is one of 12,519 species in the app.