ANIMAL SPECIES:Clown Toby, Canthigaster callisterna (Ogilby, 1889)
The Clown Toby can be recognised by the parallel dark stripes and white interspace which run along the side of the body. The female fish in the upper image shows the typical colour pattern.
Identification
The Clown Toby can be recognised by the parallel dark stripes and white interspace which run along the side of the body.
The female fish in the upper image shows the typical colour pattern. She was being followed by the paler male in the lower image. Rudie Kuiter (personal communication) stated that "In males the two black lateral stripes often fade, and when courting the stripes can disappear all together."
Size range
The species grows to a maximum length of 25 cm.Distribution
The Clown Toby is only found in New South Wales, including Lord Howe Island and Norfolk Island, and New Zealand.
Distribution by collection data
Biomaps map of Clown Toby specimens in the Australian Museum collection.
Habitat
It is often seen in pairs on deep coastal and offshore reefs.
Classification
- Species:
- callisterna
- Genus:
- Canthigaster
- Family:
- Tetraodontidae
- 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. 1993. Coastal Fishes of South-Eastern Australia. Crawford House Press. Pp. 437. Kuiter, R.H. 1996. Guide to Sea Fishes of Australia. New Holland. Pp. 433.
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A female Clown Toby at Port Stephens View full size
David & Leanne Atkinson
© David & Leanne Atkinson
A male Clown Toby at Port Stephens View full size
David & Leanne Atkinson
© David & Leanne Atkinson
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