The Australian bandfish (Cepola australis) is a saltwater fish of the family Cepolidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The Australian bandfish is a bandfish (Cepolidae) from coastal waters of southern Australia. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a strongly elongate, ribbon-shaped, orange-red body with a long, continuous dorsal and anal fin. As a bottom-dweller it lives in a self-dug vertical burrow in sand and mud bottoms, from which it protrudes its forebody to snap at passing zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Australian bandfish?
The Australian bandfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly red-orange.
Where does the Australian bandfish live?
The Australian bandfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia
How big does the Australian bandfish get?
The Australian bandfish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Australian bandfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Australian bandfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cepola
More from the family Cepolidae

Want the complete picture on the Australian bandfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Australian bandfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.