Fin's Fish Guide
The Boarfish (Paristiopterus labiosus) is a saltwater fish of the family Pentacerotidae that grows up to 100 cm.
Temperate waters of southern Australia and New Zealand; continental shelf.
Description
The giant boarfish is a boarfish (Pentacerotidae) from the temperate waters of southern Australia and New Zealand. The species grows fairly large and has a deep, strongly laterally compressed body with a bony-armoured head, thick lips and tall, spiny fins. It lives on the continental shelf, often near rocky bottoms. As a bottom predator it feeds mainly on benthic organisms such as crustaceans, molluscs and worms. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Boarfish?
The Boarfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Deep body with a bony armoured head, thick lips and tall spiny fins; bottom fish of the shelf.
Where does the Boarfish live?
The Boarfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Temperate waters of southern Australia and New Zealand; continental shelf.
How big does the Boarfish get?
The Boarfish grows to a maximum of about 100 cm.
Is the Boarfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Boarfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Boarfish edible?
The Boarfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Paristiopterus
More from the family Pentacerotidae
Want the complete picture on the Boarfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Boarfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.