Sand Whiting

Interesting Info

• Sand Whiting are widely distributed along the eastern and southern coastlines of Australia. They can be found from Queensland, through New South Wales and Victoria, and down to Tasmania. There have also been recording in South Australia.
• Sand Whiting have an elongated and slender body, with a slightly compressed shape. The coloration of Sand Whiting can vary, but they usually have a silver or greyish body with distinct longitudinal stripes along their sides. These stripes can range from pale yellow to dark brown.
• They are known to exhibit schooling behaviour, especially during their juvenile stages. These schools can range from a few individuals to larger groups, and they often swim close to the surface.
• Sand Whiting primarily feed on small crustaceans, molluscs, and worms that they find in sandy substrates. They use a technique called “head-down sifting” to locate and capture their prey.
• They have a well-developed sensory system, including a keen sense of smell and excellent eyesight. These adaptations help them locate food in their sandy habitat.
• Breeding habits of Sand Whiting are influenced by water temperature and other environmental factors. They typically spawn during the warmer months, usually from late spring to early autumn, with peak spawning occurring in summer.
• Male Sand Whiting build nests in shallow sandy areas, where they court females by performing a mating dance. Once the female releases her eggs, the male fertilises them and guards the nest until the eggs hatch.
• Their estimated average lifespan is between 6 – 8 years.