ANIMAL SPECIES:Bullrout, Notesthes robusta (Günther, 1860)
The Bullrout should be handled with extreme care. The dorsal, anal and pelvic spines all have venom glands. The species occurs from northern Queensland to southern New South Wales.
Alternative Name/s
Freshwater Bullrout, Freshwater Stonefish, KrokiIdentification
The Bullrout has a large head with seven spines on the operculum. It has a big mouth with a protruding lower jaw. The spinous dorsal fin is slightly concave posteriorly and the last soft dorsal ray is attached by a membrane to the caudal peduncle. The body is covered with small scales but the head is scaleless. It's colouration is variable from pale yellowish to dark brown, with blotches and marbling of dark brown, red-brown, grey or black. These markings sometimes form broad irregular bands.
Size range
The species can grow to 30 cm in length, but is more commonly seen up to about 20 cm.Distribution
It occurs from northern Queensland to southern New South Wales and has infrequently been caught at sea.
Distribution by collection data
Biomaps map of Bullrout specimens in the Australian Museum collection.
Habitat
The species lives in tidal estuaries and slow-flowing freshwater streams.
Living with us
Danger to humans and first aid
The Bullrout should be handled with extreme care. The dorsal, anal and pelvic spines all have venom glands. A puncture wound from one of these spines can be excruciatingly painful.
Classification
- Species:
- robusta
- Genus:
- Notesthes
- Family:
- Tetrarogidae
- Order:
- Scorpaeniformes
- Class:
- Actinopterygii
- Subphylum:
- Vertebrata
- Phylum:
- Chordata
- Kingdom:
- Animalia
References
- Pollard, D.A. & P. Parker. 1996 in McDowall, R.M. (ed) Freshwater Fishes of South-Eastern Australia. Reed Books. Pp. 247.
- Merrick, J.R. & G.E. Schmida. 1984. Australian Freshwater Fishes. Biology and Management. John R. Merrick. Pp. 409.
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Bullrout at Nambucca Heads View full size
Erik Schlögl
© Erik Schlögl
A Bullrout caught at Clyde River Crossing, New South Wales. View full size
Michael Jones
© Michael Jones
Bullrout, Notesthes robusta, caught in Lake Curalo View full size
Amanda Hay
© Australian Museum
Head of a Bullrout, Notesthes robusta View full size
Amanda Hay
© Australian Museum
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