Callionymus simplicicornis Valenciennes, 1837
Simple-spined dragonet
photo by Malaer, P.

Family:  Callionymidae (Dragonets)
Max. size:  6 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 2 - 40 m
Distribution:  Pacific Ocean: Philippines to the Marquesan and Tuamoto islands.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 4-4; Dorsal soft rays (total): 8-8; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft rays: 7-8. Preopercular spine 1[4 - 13 (rarely 4 - 5)/0] 1.
Biology:  Inhabits sand bottoms of subtidal reef flats to a depth of at least 40 m in deep lagoons and outer reef slopes (Ref. 1602). Feeds on small benthic invertebrates (Ref. 89972). Usually buries itself in the sand and only comes out to feed or during courtship (Ref. 48636).
IUCN Red List Status: Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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