Fin's Fish Guide
The Hovering dartfish (Ptereleotris helenae) is a saltwater fish of the family Microdesmidae that grows up to 12 cm.
North America: Antigua Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Brazil, Virgin Is. (UK), Cayman Is. and others
Description
The Hovering dartfish is a dartfish (Gobiidae) from clear coastal and reef water of the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a slender, streamlined body with large eyes and graceful, sometimes elongate fins. As a social fish it hovers in pairs or groups just above sand and coral rubble and snaps at passing zooplankton; when threatened it darts lightning-fast into a burrow in the bottom. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hovering dartfish?
The Hovering dartfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly blue.
Where does the Hovering dartfish live?
The Hovering dartfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Antigua Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Brazil, Virgin Is. (UK), Cayman Is. and others
How big does the Hovering dartfish get?
The Hovering dartfish grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Hovering dartfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Hovering dartfish 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ptereleotris
More from the family Microdesmidae
Want the complete picture on the Hovering dartfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hovering dartfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.