Fin's Fish Guide
The Whitley's gurnard perch (Maxillicosta whitleyi) is a saltwater fish of the family Neosebastidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The Whitley's gurnard perch is a gurnard perch (Neosebastidae) from coastal and slope waters of coastal waters of southern Australia. 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 Whitley's gurnard perch?
The Whitley's gurnard perch has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly red-orange. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Whitley's gurnard perch live?
The Whitley's gurnard perch lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia
How big does the Whitley's gurnard perch get?
The Whitley's gurnard perch grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Whitley's gurnard perch dangerous to humans?
The Whitley's 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 Whitley's gurnard perch?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Whitley's gurnard perch is one of 12,519 species in the app.