Fin's Fish Guide
The Raoul gurnard perch (Maxillicosta raoulensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Neosebastidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The Raoul gurnard perch is a gurnard perch (Neosebastidae) from coastal and slope waters of the southwest Pacific, around New Zealand. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a stocky, reddish body with a large, spiny head and large eyes. As a bottom-oriented ambush hunter it sits on sand, rubble and reef bottoms and seizes small crustaceans and small fish. The dorsal and head spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Raoul gurnard perch?
The Raoul gurnard perch has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly red-orange. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Raoul gurnard perch live?
The Raoul gurnard perch lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia, New Zealand, Kermadec Is., Lord Howe I.
How big does the Raoul gurnard perch get?
The Raoul gurnard perch grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Raoul gurnard perch dangerous to humans?
The Raoul gurnard perch is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from a fin spine: rinse the wound, remove any visible spine fragments and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) to break down the venom. The pain can be severe. For marked swelling, a retained spine or signs of infection seek medical care and check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Maxillicosta
More from the family Neosebastidae
Want the complete picture on the Raoul gurnard perch?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Raoul gurnard perch is one of 12,519 species in the app.