Fin's Fish Guide
The Sailfin dragonet (Callionymus pusillus) is a saltwater fish of the family Callionymidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, on sandy and silty bottoms in shallow to moderately deep water.
Description
The sailfin dragonet is a small, flattened bottom fish of the family Callionymidae reaching about 14 cm. The broad, flat head has the eyes on top, and the sandy-brown body bears dark spots and a bluish pattern. As in other dragonets the sexes differ strongly: the breeding male has a strikingly high, sail-like first dorsal fin, which it raises during courtship, while the female is more subdued. The species lives on sand and mud bottoms of the Mediterranean and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, from shallow to moderate depths. On the bottom it searches for small crustaceans and worms. Because of its small size it has no fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sailfin dragonet?
The Sailfin dragonet has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Small, flattened bottom-dwelling fish with the eyes on top; the male has a greatly heightened, sail-shaped first dorsal fin.
Where does the Sailfin dragonet live?
The Sailfin dragonet lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, on sandy and silty bottoms in shallow to moderately deep water.
How big does the Sailfin dragonet get?
The Sailfin dragonet grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Sailfin dragonet dangerous to humans?
No, the Sailfin dragonet is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Sailfin dragonet edible?
The Sailfin dragonet is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Sailfin 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 Callionymus
More from the family Callionymidae
Want the complete picture on the Sailfin dragonet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sailfin dragonet is one of 12,519 species in the app.