Spotted Handfish and Similar Species
Brachionichthys hirsutus
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Spotted Handfish. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Red Handfish
Thymichthys politus
Key differences: The Red Handfish is typically bright red to pinkish-red with fewer, less distinct spots, or sometimes unspotted. It also has a more prominent, pointed 'horn' or crest on its head compared to the Spotted Handfish.
Ziebell's Handfish
Brachiopsilus ziebelli
Key differences: Ziebell's Handfish is generally darker, often purplish-brown, and lacks the distinct spots of the Spotted Handfish. It also has a more robust body and a slightly different head shape. It is considered possibly extinct.
Warty Handfish
Antennarius maculatus (a frogfish)
Key differences: While also 'walking' and having warty skin, the Warty Handfish (a frogfish) belongs to a different family (Antennariidae). It has a much larger, more prominent illicium and esca, a more globular body, and a different fin structure. It is also found in tropical Indo-Pacific waters, not temperate Tasmania.
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