How to Identify Western Australian Pigfish

To identify Western Australian Pigfish (Pomadasys fuscus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Generally silvery-grey to brownish-grey on the back, fading to silvery-white on the belly. Often exhibits irregular dark spots or blotches, particularly on the upper flanks and fins. Fins can be dusky or yellowish. Juveniles may have more pronounced banding.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

subterminal

Distinctive features

Relatively small mouth, slightly inferior., Thick lips., Strong, serrated preopercle., Produces grunting sounds., Scales extend onto the head and fin bases.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, deeply notched, with 12-13 strong spines and 13-15 soft rays. The spinous portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Long and pointed pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 strong spines and 7-8 soft rays. Pelvic fins thoracic, with 1 spine and 5 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Look for a moderately compressed, robust body with a silvery-grey to brownish-grey back and lighter belly. Irregular dark spots or blotches are often present on the upper body and fins.

2. 2

   Mouth and Lips

   Note the relatively small, slightly inferior mouth with thick lips. This distinguishes it from some other grunter species with larger, more terminal mouths.

3. 3

   Dorsal Fin

   Observe the single, deeply notched dorsal fin with a prominent spinous portion (12-13 strong spines) and a shorter soft-rayed portion (13-15 soft rays).

4. 4

   Grunting Sound

   If handled, listen for the characteristic grunting sound produced by this species, a key identifier for the Haemulidae family.

5. 5

   Geographic Location

   Its presence exclusively in Western Australian waters is a strong indicator for identification.

Explore Western Australian Pigfish