Longray Weed Whiting

Siphonognathus Radiatus
Longray Weed Whiting - Marinewise © 2024 MarineWise

Quick Facts

Scientific name Siphonognathus Radiatus
Other names Bridled Rock Whiting, Bridled Weed Whiting, Longray Rock Whiting, Longrayed Rock Whiting, Stranger
Size Up to 21 cm (8.26 in)
Weight Up to .20 kg (.44 lb)

Distribution

Habitat & AU Distribution Coastal waters amongst seagrass beds, areas of weed & soft bottoms
Depth Range 1 - 10 m (32 ft)
Longray Weed Whiting Distribution

Interesting Info

  • The Longray Weed Whiting is endemic to Australia and is primarily found along southern coastlines. They are commonly sighted in Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and parts of Western Australia.
  • They are a small, elongated fish species, characterised by a slender body and a distinctive long, ray-like dorsal fin. They generally have a green body with scattered lines of blue and orange markings on their sides.
  • They are a carnivorous species, preying on small invertebrates like crustaceans, worms, and molluscs found in the seafloor substrate.
  • These fish prefer estuaries, bays, and sheltered coastal areas with seagrass meadows and sandy bottoms. Such environments offer protection and abundant food sources.
  • While not strictly migratory, Longray Weed Whiting can display some seasonal movement in response to changes in water temperature and food availability.
  • Longray Weed Whiting spawns during the warmer months in Australia, typically from late spring to early autumn. They exhibit external fertilisation, where females release eggs and males release sperm simultaneously.
  • During courtship, males perform elaborate displays and territorial behaviours to attract females. After fertilisation, the adhesive eggs attach to seagrass blades or other underwater structures for protection.
  • Their estimated average lifespan is between 3 – 5 years.
Species Interaction

Recreational Fishing, Snorkeling & Diving

Longray Weed Whiting are not a primary target for recreational fishing, they are occasionally caught as a by-catch when fishing for other species. For snorkelers and divers, observing them can be a rewarding experience. Their vibrant green coloration and distinct blue and orange streaks make them visually striking, especially against the backdrop of seagrass beds and rocky reefs.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Actinopterygii

Order: Perciformes

Family: Labridae

Genus: Siphonognathus

Species: Siphonognathus Radiatus

Conservation Status

The Longray Weed Whiting’s conservation status in Australia is classified as “Least Concern.” However, it is essential to verify this information with more recent sources for up-to-date status.

How to catch
Longray Weed Whiting

Catch Difficulty: Easy

Tackle: Running Sinker Rig

Bait: Fresh cut flesh baits, Prawns, Shellfish, Squid, Worms

Technique: Keep bait close to structure

Popularity: Not targeted - Bycatch

Recreational Viewing
- Snorkeling & Scuba

Finding: Intermediate

Temperament: Shy

Location: Inner Reef, Lagoon, Seagrass Beds

Danger: None