Fin's Fish Guide
The Japanese dragonet (Diplogrammus xenicus) is a saltwater fish of the family Callionymidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Asia: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Ryukyu Is.
Description
The Japanese dragonet is a dragonet (Callionymidae) from shallow sand and reef water of the northwest Pacific around Japan. The species grows to about 6 cm and has a flattened, scaleless body with a triangular head, high-set eyes and a small, protrusible mouth; males often carry a high, ornate first dorsal fin. As a bottom-dweller it creeps over sand and rubble and picks small crustaceans, worms and fish eggs. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Japanese dragonet?
The Japanese dragonet has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Japanese dragonet live?
The Japanese dragonet lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Ryukyu Is.
How big does the Japanese dragonet get?
The Japanese dragonet grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Japanese dragonet dangerous to humans?
No, the Japanese 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.
Want the complete picture on the Japanese dragonet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Japanese dragonet is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Diplogrammus
More from the family Callionymidae
Want the complete picture on the Japanese dragonet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Japanese dragonet is one of 12,519 species in the app.