ANIMAL SPECIES:Leafy Seadragon, Phycodurus eques (Günther, 1865)
The Leafy seadgragon is one of only 2 seadragon species found in Australian waters. It's leafy appendages allow it to perfectly camoflouge amongst kelp-covered rocky reefs.
Identification
The Leafy Seadragon can be recognised by the leafy appendages on its body. It has a long tubular snout, a pectoral fin on its "neck" and a dorsal fin on its "back".
Similar Species
Weedy Seadragon, Phyllopteryx taeniolatusDistribution
This superbly camouflaged fish is endemic to Australian temperate waters. It is known from the southern coastline of Australia, from Kangaroo Island, South Australia to south-western Western Australia.
Distribution by collection data
Biomaps map of Leafy Seadragon specimens in the Australian Museum collection.
Habitat
It occurs on kelp-covered rocky reefs in depths from about 3 m to 50 m.
Behaviour and adaptations
Mating and reproduction
The species carries it's eggs attached to the underside of its tail.
Classification
- Species:
- eques
- Genus:
- Phycodurus
- Family:
- Syngnathidae
- Order:
- Gasterosteiformes
- Class:
- Actinopterygii
- Subphylum:
- Vertebrata
- Phylum:
- Chordata
- Kingdom:
- Animalia
Further Reading
- Dawson, C.E. 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.
- Hutchins, B. & R. Swainston. 1986. Sea Fishes of Southern Australia. Complete Field Guide for Anglers and Divers. Swainston Publishing. Pp. 180.
- Kuiter, R.H. 2000. Coastal Fishes of South-eastern Australia. Gary Allen. Pp. 437.
- Kuiter, R.H. 1996. Guide to Sea Fishes of Australia. New Holland. Pp. 433.
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Leafy Seadragon, Phycodurus eques View full size
Andrew Bowie
© Andrew Bowie
A Leafy Seadragon at Victor Harbour View full size
Andrew Bowie
© Andrew Bowie
A male Leafy Seadragon at Victor Harbour View full size
Andrew Bowie
© Andrew Bowie
Head of a Leafy Seadragon View full size
Noel Conlon
© Noel Conlon
Leafy Seadragon at Victor Harbour View full size
Noel Conlon
© Noel Conlon
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