ANIMAL SPECIES:Velvetfish, Aploactisoma milesii (Richardson, 1850)
The Velvetfish lives between rocks and sponges or partially buried in the sand in coastal bays and estuaries of temperate Australia. Its camouflage, colouration and body form means it is seen infrequently.
Identification
The Velvetfish has thick skin and a velvet-like appearance. The lateral line along the side of the body has variously developed knobs and filaments. The species has highly variable colour from grey to cream or brown, with purplish mottling. This camouflage colouration and body form mean the Velvetfish is seen infrequently.
The long dorsal fin originates just before the eye and runs along the back, with only a small gap before the rounded caudal fin. The pectoral fin is long, rounded and incised between the thickened upper rays.
Size range
It grows to 23 cm in length.Distribution
The Velvetfish is recorded in Australia's temperate waters from Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, south to Tasmania and west to Shark Bay, Western Australia.
Distribution by collection data
Biomaps map of Velvetfish specimens in the Australian Museum collection.
Habitat
The species is occasionally seen between rocks and sponges or partially buried in the sand that surrounds rocks and algae. It is found in depths of 3 m to 30 m in protected waters such as coastal bays and estuaries.
Classification
- Species:
- milesii
- Genus:
- Aploactisoma
- Family:
- Aploactinidae
- Order:
- Scorpaeniformes
- 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.
- Poss, S.G. in Gomon, M.F, C.J.M. Glover & R.H. Kuiter (Eds). 1994. The Fishes of Australia's South Coast. State Print, Adelaide. Pp. 992.
- Kuiter, R.H. 1993. Coastal Fishes of South-Eastern Australia. Crawford House Press. Pp. 437.
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A Velvetfish at South Head, Sydney Harbour View full size
Allan Saben
© Allan Saben
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