Callionymus valenciennei, also known as the dragonet, is a species of fish belonging to the family Callionymidae. These fish are commonly found in the marine environment, particularly in the temperate waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
Description & Characteristics
Callionymus valenciennei is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 17.4 cm. Its body is elongated and slender, with a flattened head and a prominent snout. The dorsal fin is composed of two distinct parts, the first being short and spiny, while the second is longer and soft-rayed. The pectoral fins are large and fan-shaped, and the pelvic fins are located close to the throat. The coloration of Callionymus valenciennei varies, often featuring a blend of reddish-brown, orange, and yellow hues, sometimes with distinctive markings.
Habitat and Occurrence
Callionymus valenciennei inhabits a range of depths, typically between 20.0 and 50.0 meters. They are found in a variety of marine zones, from coastal areas to deeper offshore waters. These fish are particularly common in areas with sandy or muddy bottoms, where they can burrow and hide from predators. They prefer temperate waters and are found in the Atlantic Ocean, including the Mediterranean Sea.
Taxonomy
Callionymus valenciennei belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Callionymiformes, and Family: Callionymidae. This family includes a diverse group of fish known as dragonets, characterized by their elongated bodies, flattened heads, and distinctive dorsal fins. They are part of the larger class Teleostei, which encompasses a vast majority of bony fish species, and the order Callionymiformes, a group of primarily marine fish with a distinctive appearance and specialized adaptations.
Feeding
Callionymus valenciennei is a carnivorous fish that primarily feeds on small invertebrates, such as crustaceans and worms. They use their prominent snouts to sift through the substrate in search of prey, often relying on their keen sense of smell to locate food.
Image References