Longray Weed Whiting

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.