Globehead Whiptail

Interesting Info

• The Globehead Whiptail is a species of fish that can be found in the deep-sea waters of the southern and eastern coasts of Australia, from Western Australia to New South Wales, including Tasmania.
• They have an elongated body shape and a unique protrusion on its head, resembling a globe or rounded hump. This distinctive feature gives it its common name. Like many deep-sea fish they have a greyish to brownish black colour.
• They are carnivores, that feed on small fish, crustaceans, molluscs and polychaete worms.
• They possess sensory adaptations to thrive in the deep-sea environment. It has well-developed lateral line organs along its body, which enable it to detect vibrations and movements in the water, aiding in navigation and locating prey.
• The Globehead Whiptail has a relatively slow growth rate, which is common among deep-sea fishes. Its longevity and reproductive characteristics likely reflect the challenges and resource limitations of the deep-sea environment.
• Like many fish of the deep, they have large eyes, likely an adaptation to low-light conditions in the deep-sea environment.
• This species is oviparous, meaning it reproduces by laying eggs. However, specific details about the breeding habits and reproductive season of the Globehead Whiptail are not readily available.
• Lifespan estimates for the Globehead Whiptail can be challenging to determine due to the difficulties in studying and observing them in their natural habitats. Other whiptail species have lifespans between 10 – 20 years.