Giant Boarfish, Paristiopterus labiosus (Günther, 1872)

Introduction

In Australia the Giant Boarfish occurs from northern New South Wales south to Tasmania. The species mostly lives in deep water down to 200 m.

Identification

The Giant Boarfish has an elongated snout and a long-based dorsal fin. Juveniles and female Giant Boarfish are distinctly banded, but adult males have yellow spots.

Habitat

The species mostly lives in deep water down to 200 m. Sometimes it is observed in shallower water swimming over sandy or muddy bottoms.

Distribution

In Australia the Giant Boarfish occurs from northern New South Wales south to Tasmania.

The map below shows the Australian distribution of the species based on public sightings and specimens in Australian Museums. Click on the map for detailed information. Source: Atlas of Living Australia.

Other behaviours and adaptations

Juveniles typically swim in small schools.

Breeding behaviours

Adults are usually seen in pairs.

References

1. Hardy, G.S. in Gomon, M.F, Glover, C.J.M. & R.H. Kuiter (Eds). 1994. The Fishes of Australia's South Coast. State Print, Adelaide. Pp. 992.
2. Hoese, D.F., Bray, D.J., Paxton, J.R. & G.R. Allen. 2006. Fishes. In Beesley, P.L. & A. Wells. (eds) Zoological Catalogue of Australia. Volume 35. ABRS & CSIRO Publishing: Australia. parts 1-3, pages 1-2178.
3. Kuiter, R.H. 1993. Coastal Fishes of South-Eastern Australia. Crawford House Press. Pp. 437.