Yellowfin Leatherjacket, Meuschenia trachylepis (Günther, 1870)

Introduction

The Yellowfin Leatherjacket is commonly found in estuarine seagrass beds and kelp-covered rocky reefs. At night this species can been seen biting onto a strand of seagrass to keep it anchored while it sleeps.

Identification

The species can be recognised by the the caudal fin pattern and the scribble-like markings on the sides of the body.

It has a strong, barbed dorsal spine above the eye, narrow gill openings above the pectoral fins and usually two pairs of spines on the caudal peduncle.

Habitat

The species is commonly found in shallow estuaries, particularly during their juvenile and young adult stages. Large adults are often seen on rocky reefs.

Distribution

The Yellowfin Leatherjacket is endemic to Australia. It is usually seen at depths of 10 m to 40 m from southern Queensland to eastern Victoria.

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. Gomon, M.F., Bray, D. & R.H. Kuiter (Eds). 2008. The Fishes of Australia's Southern Coast. Reed New Holland. Pp. 928.
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. Hutchins, B. & R. Swainston. 1986. Sea Fishes of Southern Australia. Complete Field Guide for Anglers and Divers. Swainston Publishing. Pp. 180.
4. Kuiter, R.H. 2000. Coastal Fishes of South-eastern Australia. Gary Allen. Pp. 437.