Fin's Fish Guide
The Boarfish (Pentaceropsis recurvirostris) is a saltwater fish of the family Pentacerotidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Temperate coastal waters of southern Australia; continental shelf near rocky reefs.
Description
The longsnout boarfish is a boarfish (Pentacerotidae) from the temperate coastal waters of southern Australia. The species has a deep, strongly laterally compressed, silvery body with dark bands and a conspicuous, elongated snout, to which the name refers. It occurs on the continental shelf, most commonly at less than 40 m, near rocky reefs. With its long snout it picks brittle stars, bristleworms and bryozoans from the bottom. 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 vertical stripes pattern. Elongated snout and dark bands; picks brittle stars and worms from the bottom.
Where does the Boarfish live?
The Boarfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Temperate coastal waters of southern Australia; continental shelf near rocky reefs.
How big does the Boarfish get?
The Boarfish grows to a maximum of about 50 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
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.