Fin's Fish Guide
The Dwarf dory (Zenion hololepis) is a saltwater fish of the family Zeniontidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Widespread in deep water of warm and temperate seas worldwide, above the continental slope area.
Description
The dwarf dory is a small dory of the family Zeniontidae (dwarf dories) reaching about 16 cm. The deep, strongly compressed, silvery body has large eyes and a far-protrusible, tube-shaped mouth - an adaptation to suck in small prey in a flash. The species is a deep-water dweller widely distributed above the continental slope of warm and temperate seas worldwide. There it feeds on small zooplankton and small crustaceans. Because of its small size and deep lifestyle it has no fishery value and is only rarely seen.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dwarf dory?
The Dwarf dory has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small, deep-bodied and strongly laterally flattened dory with large eyes and a mouth that can shoot far forward; lives in deep water.
Where does the Dwarf dory live?
The Dwarf dory lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Widespread in deep water of warm and temperate seas worldwide, above the continental slope area.
How big does the Dwarf dory get?
The Dwarf dory grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Dwarf dory dangerous to humans?
No, the Dwarf dory is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Dwarf dory edible?
The Dwarf dory is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Zeniontidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dwarf dory is one of 12,519 species in the app.