Fin's Fish Guide
The Phaeton dragonet (Synchiropus phaeton) is a saltwater fish of the family Callionymidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Eastern Atlantic from Portugal and the Azores to Gabon, including the Mediterranean Sea.
Description
The Phaeton dragonet is a small deep-water dragonet of the family Callionymidae reaching about 18 cm, with females smaller than males. The species lives on sand and mud bottoms of the eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean, usually between 80 and 650 m. It has two dorsal fins, the first of which is spiny. Males are territorial and behave aggressively toward one another. The Phaeton dragonet feeds on small bottom animals, mainly worms, snails and crustaceans. Its eggs and larvae drift freely in the water. Because of its small size and deep habitat the species has no commercial value and is rarely encountered.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Phaeton dragonet?
The Phaeton dragonet has a torpedo-shaped body. Small deep-water dragonet of sandy and muddy bottoms; males are territorial and aggressive towards each other.
Where does the Phaeton dragonet live?
The Phaeton dragonet lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic from Portugal and the Azores to Gabon, including the Mediterranean Sea.
How big does the Phaeton dragonet get?
The Phaeton dragonet grows to a maximum of about 18 cm. On average the species is around 12 cm.
Is the Phaeton dragonet dangerous to humans?
No, the Phaeton dragonet is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Phaeton dragonet edible?
The Phaeton dragonet is not usually eaten.
Easily confused with
These species look like the Phaeton dragonet and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Synchiropus
More from the family Callionymidae
Want the complete picture on the Phaeton dragonet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Phaeton dragonet is one of 12,519 species in the app.