Goldspot Pigfish, Bodianus perditio (Quoy & Gaimard, 1834)

Introduction

The Goldspot Pigfish has an antiequatorial distribution. This means that it is found in sub-tropical marine waters of the northern and southern hemispheres but not in the tropics.

Identification

The Goldspot Pigfish can be recognised by its colouration. It is orangy-red with orange spots on the head and the front half of the body. Much of the first dorsal fin is black. There is a yellow spot or bar (hence the standard name) on the back followed by a large black mark on the base of the soft dorsal fin and upper body.

Habitat

It occurs in coral reef, rocky reef and inshore habitats. It has been reported from as shallow as 10 m but usually lives at greater depths.

Distribution

It has an antitropical distribution in the Indo-west to Central Pacific. In Australia it is known from southern Queensland to Sydney, New South Wales and from Lord Howe Island.

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.

References

1. 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.
2. Randall, J.E., Allen, G.R. & R.C. Steene. 1997. Fishes of the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea. Crawford House Press. Pp. 557.