Maori Rockcod, Epinephelus undulatostriatus (Peters, 1867)

Scientific name: Epinephelus undulatostriatus
Alternative name/s:
Maori Cod
  • Author(s)
    Mark McGrouther
  • Updated
    31/03/21
  • Read time
    2 minutes
Maori Rockcod, Epinephelus undulatostriatus Click to enlarge image
A Maori Rockcod caught on hook and line at Port Stephens, 2011. Image: Peter Silcock
© Peter Silcock

Fast Facts

  • Classification
    Genus
    Epinephelus
    Species
    undulatostriatus
    Family
    Serranidae
    Order
    Perciformes
    Class
    Actinopterygii
    Subphylum
    Vertebrata
    Phylum
    Chordata
    Kingdom
    Animalia
  • Size Range
    The species grows to 40 cm in length.

Introduction

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.

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.

Maori Rockcod, Epinephelus undulatostriatus

A Maori Rockcod at a depth of 14 m, 'The Ledges', Fly Point Marine Reserve, Port Stephens, New South Wales, July 2006.

Image: David and Leanne Atkinson
© David and Leanne Atkinson

Habitat

Coastal reefs and deep estuaries.

Distribution

It is known from southern Queensland to southern New South Wales.

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

Distribution data sourced from the Atlas of Living Australia

References

  1. Hutchins, B. & R. Swainston. 1986. Sea Fishes of Southern Australia. Complete Field Guide for Anglers and Divers. Swainston Publishing. Pp. 180.
  2. Kuiter, R.H. 2000. Coastal Fishes of South-eastern Australia. Gary Allen. Pp. 437.