Quick Facts
Distribution

Interesting Info
- The Southern Crested Weedfish lives all around southern Australia, from Victoria and South Australia, through Tasmania, and all the way to the Houtman Abrolhos in Western Australia.
- It belongs to the clinid family, a group of fishes specially adapted for camouflage in kelp, algae, and seagrass habitats.
- This species gets its name from the small crest or fleshy flap on its head, which can be raised when the fish is alert or displaying to rivals.
- Body colours are highly variable—olive, brown, red, or green, often patterned with spots, stripes, or mottling that mimic surrounding seaweed.
- Juveniles are usually more patterned, with banding and blotches that give them excellent camouflage in shallow weed beds.
- Southern Crested Weedfish live in shallow coastal waters, from tide pools to 15 m (50 ft) deep, among kelp, seagrass, and rocky reef weed cover.
- They are ambush predators, sitting motionless in weed until small crustaceans, worms, or tiny fishes pass close enough to be snapped up.
- Their large pectoral fins allow them to perch on rocks and stabilise in surge zones where waves push through kelp forests.
- Breeding occurs in spring and summer; females lay sticky eggs on seaweed or rocky surfaces, which are then guarded by males until hatching.
- The lifespan is not well studied but is thought to be around 4–6 years, similar to related weedfish species.
- Predators include larger reef fishes, octopuses, and seabirds that forage in shallow kelp zones.
- This fish plays an important role in coastal ecosystems by keeping small invertebrate populations under control.
Species Interaction
Recreational Fishing, Aquarium, Snorkeling & Diving
The Southern Crested Weedfish is not a species targeted for recreational fishing but is often caught as bycatch when targeting other species. They can occasionally be found in large, established reef aquariums. In the wild can be an exciting experience for snorkelers and divers. Due to their camouflage ability, patience and a keen eye are necessary to spot them amidst the rocky and weedy environment. Slow and gentle movements are essential to avoid startling these shy creatures.
Scientific Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Clinidae
Genus: Cristiceps
Species: Cristiceps Australis
Conservation Status
Currently, the Southern Crested Weedfish is not listed as a threatened species in Australia. However, it’s crucial to cross-reference this information as conservation statuses can change over time.
How to catch
Southern Crested Weedfish
Catch Difficulty: Easy
Tackle: Running Sinker Rig
Bait: Fresh cut flesh baits, Prawns, Shellfish, Squid, Worms
Technique: Keep bait close to the reef/structure
Popularity: Not targeted - Bycatch
Southern Crested Weedfish
As Aquarium Fish
Care Level: Moderate to difficult
Temperament: Shy
Diet: Carnivore
Reef Compatible: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons
Recreational Viewing
- Snorkeling & Scuba
Finding: Difficult
Temperament: Shy
Location: Inner Reef, Lagoon
Danger: None