Common Name: Eastern Fortescue

Distribution: Abundant in the Solitary Islands Marine Park. Generally found on the Australian east coast from southern Queensland to eastern Victoria.

Ecological Notes: Frequents silty or muddy bottoms, sandy or rocky channels in coastal bays, harbours, creeks or rivers. Small juveniles found in tidal pools and sandbank channels. Known to a depth of 30 m.

Additional Notes: Often found in large numbers in ideal environments. Has strong spines on head and in dorsal fin, known to inflict painful wounds when caught or stepped on in shallow water. Colour variation from almost white to large brown blotches with spots. Grows to 14 cm.

References: Kuiter, R. H., Coastal Fishes of South-Eastern Australia. Published by Crawford House Press Pty. Ltd., 1993. p. 118.