Fin's Fish Guide
The Unusual velvetfish (Matsubarichthys inusitatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Aploactinidae that grows up to 2 cm.
Description
The Unusual velvetfish is a velvetfish (Aploactinidae) from shallow reef and rocky water around Australia and the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a stocky, brown mottled body with a velvety, prickly skin and a dorsal fin starting high on the head, strongly camouflaged among rock, weed and coral rubble. As a motionless ambush predator it snaps at small crustaceans and small fish. The dorsal spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Unusual velvetfish?
The Unusual velvetfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Unusual velvetfish live?
The Unusual velvetfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia
How big does the Unusual velvetfish get?
The Unusual velvetfish grows to a maximum of about 2 cm.
Is the Unusual velvetfish dangerous to humans?
The Unusual velvetfish 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
More from the family Aploactinidae
Want the complete picture on the Unusual velvetfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Unusual velvetfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.