Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackspotted gurnard perch (Neosebastes nigropunctatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Neosebastidae that grows up to 36 cm.
Description
The blackspotted gurnard perch is a gurnard perch (Neosebastidae) from the temperate coastal waters of southern Australia. The species has a stocky, reddish body with black spots and a large, spiny head. It lives on inshore reefs and has been caught at depths from 60 to 556 m, usually shallower than 250 m. As an ambush hunter it catches small fishes and crustaceans. The dorsal and head spines are venomous and give a painful puncture wound; treat a sting with hot water and seek medical help if symptoms occur.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackspotted gurnard perch?
The Blackspotted gurnard perch has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Reddish body with black spots; venomous dorsal and head spines.
Where does the Blackspotted gurnard perch live?
The Blackspotted gurnard perch lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Temperate coastal waters of southern Australia; coastal reefs.
How big does the Blackspotted gurnard perch get?
The Blackspotted gurnard perch grows to a maximum of about 36 cm.
Is the Blackspotted gurnard perch dangerous to humans?
The Blackspotted gurnard perch is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines are venomous and give a painful, burning puncture wound. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and seek medical care if pain or infection persists.
Is the Blackspotted gurnard perch edible?
The Blackspotted gurnard perch is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Neosebastes
More from the family Neosebastidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackspotted gurnard perch?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackspotted gurnard perch is one of 12,519 species in the app.