Dragonet

Identification

The common dragonet is a small, elongated bottom fish of 15 to 25 cm with a strongly flattened head and large, upward-facing eyes. Males are spectacularly colored: blue with orange stripes and a tall first dorsal fin displayed for courtship. Females are inconspicuously brown.

Ecology

Lives on sandy bottoms in shallow coastal waters. Feeds on small crustaceans, worms, and shellfish. Males defend territories and display their colorful first dorsal fin.

In the Netherlands

Common in the southern North Sea. The spectacular male colors are among the most beautiful sights among North Sea fish.