Common Dragonet (Callionymus lyra)
Fish in the family Callionymidae. Hard care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
A slender, elongated benthic fish with elaborate pectoral and dorsal fins. Males display vibrant turquoise, yellow, and orange coloration with distinctive banding patterns, while females are more subdued. The body tapers posteriorly, and the gill flaps bear gill-hooked structures (homodont) used during competitive displays.
Diet and feeding
Feeds on small benthic invertebrates including amphipods, copepods, and mysid shrimp. In captivity, provide live or frozen micro-foods such as copepods, mysis, and quality frozen carnivore preparations daily.
Difficulty and care for the Common Dragonet
Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.
Common health issues
Marine ich, Fin Rot, Swim Bladder Disorder, Hole in the Head Disease, Columnaris Disease
Origin and habitat
Eastern Atlantic Ocean from the British Isles south to the Mediterranean and West Africa, including the North Sea. Found in shallow coastal waters at depths of 5–60 meters.
Log Common Dragonet in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Common Dragonet alongside everything else in your reef.
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