How to Identify Old wife

To identify Old wife (Enoplosus armatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Striking pattern of 7-9 broad, dark brown to black vertical bands on a silvery-white to yellowish-white background. The bands extend onto the fins. Juveniles often have more pronounced banding.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Extremely elongated dorsal and anal fins, giving a sail-like appearance., Deeply compressed body., Large, prominent eyes., Small mouth., Venomous spines in dorsal, anal, and pelvic fins.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first is very high and sail-like, with 8 strong, venomous spines and 14-16 soft rays. The second dorsal fin is continuous with the first, but lower.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is slightly emarginate to truncate.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are moderately sized and rounded.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, with 1 spine and 5 soft rays, also venomous. Anal fin is also very high and sail-like, with 3 strong, venomous spines and 14-16 soft rays, mirroring the dorsal fin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Look for the deep, compressed body with prominent black and white vertical bands. This pattern is highly distinctive.

2. 2

   Fin Structure

   The exceptionally long, sail-like dorsal and anal fins are a key identifier. Note the strong spines within these fins.

3. 3

   Size

   Adults typically reach up to 30 cm (12 inches) in length, though larger specimens up to 40 cm (16 inches) have been recorded.

4. 4

   Habitat

   If observed in temperate Australian coastal waters around rocky reefs or seagrass, it is highly likely to be an Old wife.

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