Curve-Spined Dragonet (Callionymus curvicornis)
Fish in the family Callionymidae. Expert care. Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
Curve-Spined Dragonets display a slender, elongated body with a slightly curved or arched dorsal profile. Coloration is typically tan, cream, or pale yellow with subtle dark banding or reticulated markings. The distinctive tall, elongated first dorsal spine (which gives the species its name) curves backward; males possess notably larger dorsal fins than females.
Diet and feeding
Curve-Spined Dragonets are obligate micropredators that feed primarily on small copepods and amphipods in the substrate and on rock surfaces. In captivity, they require an established system with abundant live rock and sand to forage naturally; prepared foods are rarely accepted. Siphoning the substrate or frequently changing water can deplete their food supply.
Difficulty and care for the Curve-Spined Dragonet
This is an expert-level fish requiring meticulous care. Success depends on establishing a well-established, heavily-stocked live rock system to provide abundant copepod and amphipod populations, as this species is an obligate micropredator that rarely accepts prepared foods.
Common health issues
Starvation (if insufficient microfauna), parasitic infections, sudden death in inadequately established systems
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, including waters around the Philippines, Indonesia, and other Southeast Asian coral reef areas.
Log Curve-Spined 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 Curve-Spined Dragonet alongside everything else in your reef.
