Animal Species:Maori Rockcod, Epinephelus undulatostriatus (Peters, 1867)
Juvenile Maori Rockcod have stripes on the side of the body and a wide black stripe along the upper side . Older fish have fine lines of dots. The species only occurs in Australian waters.
Maori Rockcod, Epinephelus undulatostriatus
David and Leanne Atkinson
© David and Leanne Atkinson
Alternative Name/s
Maori Cod
Identification
The Maori Rockcod can be recognised by its pattern and colouration. Juveniles have stripes on the side of the body and a wide black stripe along the upper side and dorsal fin base. Older fish have fine lines of dots.
Size range
The species grows to 40 cm in length.
Distribution
It is known from southern Queensland to southern New South Wales.
Distribution by collection data
Biomaps map of Maori Rockcod specimens in the Australian Museum collection.
Habitat
Coastal reefs and deep estuaries.
Classification
- Species:
- undulatostriatus
- Genus:
- Epinephelus
- Family:
- Serranidae
- Order:
- Perciformes
- Class:
- Actinopterygii
- Subphylum:
- Vertebrata
- Phylum:
- Chordata
- Kingdom:
- Animalia
References
- Hutchins, B. & R. Swainston. 1986. Sea Fishes of Southern Australia. Complete Field Guide for Anglers and Divers. Swainston Publishing. Pp. 180.
- Kuiter, R.H. 2000. Coastal Fishes of South-eastern Australia. Gary Allen. Pp. 437.
Mark McGrouther
, Collection Manager, Ichthyology
Last Updated:
Tags fishes, ichthyology, Maori Rockcod, Epinephelus undulatostriatus, Serranidae,
4 comments
Hi Matt
Nice picture of Con the Cod, I take it he is a regular visitor at Fly Point.
Sally
Hi Matt. I'm pleased that Con posed so nicely for you. The photo shows the colouration beautifully. Another thing that I really like about your photo is that is shows the path of water as it enters the mouth, passes over the gills and out the opercular opening (the gill slit). You can read more about the gill rakers, arches and filaments on the Fish Dissection - Gills exposed page. Thanks again.