Western Trumpeter Whiting

Interesting Info

• Western Trumpeter Whiting is primarily found in the coastal waters of Western Australia, ranging from the Shark Bay region in the north to the South-West region, including Perth and Albany. They are also found in the Northern Territory and around Queensland down to Mackay.
• Their body coloration varies, but they generally have a silvery hue with pale to yellowish undersides. The upper parts of their body can be marked with irregular dark bands or blotches, and they possess a dark spot at the base of their pectoral fin.
• They are a carnivorous fish species that primarily feeds on small invertebrates, worms, and crustaceans, utilising their protractile mouth and excellent vision to forage in sandy or muddy substrates.
• They are a schooling fish, often forming large schools, particularly during their juvenile stages, which provides them with protection against predators and enhances their chances of successful foraging.
• Western Trumpeter Whiting are capable of undertaking long-distance migrations between different coastal areas. These movements are influenced by factors such as food availability, temperature, and reproductive needs.
• The coloration of Western Trumpeter Whiting can vary based on their surroundings. They have the ability to change their body color to match the substrate they are in, providing them with camouflage and protection from predators.
• Breeding habits of Western Trumpeter Whiting are closely tied to their spawning season, which occurs primarily during the spring and early summer months (September to December) along the Western Australian coastline.
• Male Western Trumpeter Whiting build nest-like depressions in sandy or muddy substrates near the shore, where they court females and lay their eggs. The males guard the eggs until they hatch, which usually takes around one week.
• Their estimated average lifespan is between 5 – 7 years.