Dactylopus dactylopus

Datasheet

General Description

The Fingered Dragonet, scientifically known as Dactylopus dactylopus, belongs to the Callionymidae family. These fish are characterized by their bottom-dwelling nature within the aquarium, primarily residing among rocks. Originating from the Western Pacific region, specifically from Japan to Australia, including areas like Guam and Palau, the Fingered Dragonet showcases a unique and captivating appearance.

Aquarium Suitability

Considered suitable for aquariums with a cautionary note, the Fingered Dragonet thrives best in environments where there is an abundance of food present, particularly live rocks teeming with small pods. This species is recommended for tanks that have been established for approximately a year or have an ample population of pods within the rocks. It is advised to avoid keeping two males together and exercise caution when housed with anemones, as they may pose a threat. Fingered Dragonets are generally peaceful but may display aggression towards similar species.

Care and Hardiness

With an average level of hardiness, Fingered Dragonets are relatively easy to care for, provided their dietary needs are met. It is essential to ensure they have access to a sufficient supply of live zooplankton and larger crustaceans like shrimp and crabs. These fish are known for being resilient to common parasites but are sensitive to copper-based medications. When purchasing a Fingered Dragonet, ensure they are active and in good health to facilitate acclimatization and feeding.

Reef Suitability

Categorized as always reef safe, Fingered Dragonets can be integrated into reef aquariums without significant concerns. Their bottom-dwelling behavior and peaceful temperament make them compatible with various reef organisms, enhancing the overall biodiversity of the tank.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for Fingered Dragonets, it is crucial to provide ample hiding spots among rocks and crevices to mimic their natural habitat. Maintaining stable water conditions with a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C, pH levels between 8.1-8.4, and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025 is vital for their well-being. A tank size of at least 500 liters is recommended to accommodate their bottom-dwelling behavior and territorial tendencies.

Behaviour

Fingered Dragonets exhibit a mostly peaceful demeanor within the aquarium, preferring to explore the substrate and rock formations rather than swimming in open water. They are known to display intriguing behaviors while foraging for food among the rocks, adding a dynamic element to the aquarium environment.

Feeding and Diet

These fish primarily feed on small crustaceans such as krill, mysis, and artemia, along with zooplankton like cyclops and pods. Fingered Dragonets may require live food supplementation initially, but some individuals can be trained to accept high-quality frozen food over time. Patience and dedication are essential when introducing new food sources to ensure their nutritional needs are met adequately.

Dimorphism

Male Fingered Dragonets can be distinguished by their stronger coloration and larger front dorsal fins compared to females. When keeping multiple Dragonets in the same tank, it is crucial to maintain a balanced gender ratio to avoid potential territorial disputes. Captive reproduction of Fingered Dragonets can be challenging due to their specific dietary requirements and behavioral preferences.

Habitat and Distribution

In their natural habitat, Fingered Dragonets inhabit the coastal regions of the Western Pacific, ranging from Japan to Australia, including territories like Guam and Palau. They are commonly found among rocky substrates and coral formations, where they feed on small pods and crustaceans. Properly replicating these habitat elements in the aquarium setting is crucial for the well-being and behavioral enrichment of Fingered Dragonets.