Lesser Queenfish

Interesting Info

• The Lesser Queenfish is a sleek, silvery predator often seen leaping from the water when chasing baitfish.
• It can grow to 110 cm (43 in) and around 11 kg (24 lb), though most caught are closer to 60 cm (24 in).
• In Australia it is widespread across northern waters, from Exmouth in Western Australia, through the Gulf of Carpentaria, and into Queensland, sometimes reaching as far south as Sydney. It also occurs at offshore islands like Lord Howe and Christmas Island.
• Globally it ranges across the Indo–Pacific, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Japan, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands.
• Its body is silvery-white with a bluish back, often carrying five or six round dusky spots along the sides behind the gills.
• Juveniles often live in shallow bays and estuaries, while adults prefer open reef waters and channels.
• They are active hunters, snapping up small fishes like sardines, anchovies, and mullet, as well as prawns and squid.
• Young queenfish have even been seen picking scales and skin from other schooling fishes, a quirky habit not shared by adults.
• They swim alone or in small groups, cruising lagoons, channels, and reef edges.
• Divers and snorkellers may spot them patrolling reef slopes or exploding into baitfish schools with lightning speed.
• They are surface-loving fish but can also be found down to 100 m (330 ft) in clearer offshore waters.
• Spawning takes place offshore, with eggs and larvae drifting with the currents before juveniles settle inshore.
• They are fast-growing and likely live up to 9–10 years, shorter than many larger pelagic predators.