Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted sawtail (Prionurus maculatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 45 cm.
Oceania: Australia, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Kermadec Is., Norfolk I., Lord Howe I.
Description
The spotted sawtail is a sawtail surgeonfish (Acanthuridae) from temperate reef waters of the western Pacific, around Australia and Japan. The species grows to about 45 cm and has a deep, grey-brown body with fine dark spots and a row of sharp, bony plates on the tail base that act as scalpels. As a reef-dweller it grazes algae from rocks and coral in groups. The tail plates can cause deep cuts when handled; otherwise the fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotted sawtail?
The Spotted sawtail has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Spotted sawtail live?
The Spotted sawtail lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Kermadec Is., Norfolk I., Lord Howe I.
How big does the Spotted sawtail get?
The Spotted sawtail grows to a maximum of about 45 cm.
Is the Spotted sawtail dangerous to humans?
The Spotted sawtail can cause injury; handle it with care. Do not grab the fish by the tail: sawtails carry sharp, scalpel-like bony plates on the tail base that can cause deep cuts. For a cut: clean, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing; for a deep wound seek medical assessment and check tetanus status.
Is the Spotted sawtail edible?
Yes, the Spotted sawtail is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Prionurus
More from the family Acanthuridae
Want the complete picture on the Spotted sawtail?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted sawtail is one of 12,519 species in the app.