Southern Velvetfish
Aploactisoma Milesii
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Quick Facts
Distribution
Interesting Info
- The Southern Velvetfish is native to Australian waters along the southern coasts of the country. Including Shark Bay in Western Australia, parts of South Australia, Victoria and northern areas of Tasmania.
- The Southern Velvetfish features a mottled, velvety body in shades of brown, grey, and red, with small eyes and venomous fin spines, adeptly camouflaging it within its rocky, marine habitat.
- They are carnivores, with their diet mainly consists of small crustaceans, including shrimp.
- Southern Velvetfish have venomous fin spines, which serve as a defence mechanism.
- In addition to their camouflage appearance, they have a swimming style that mimics floating seaweed, undulating side to side, which aids their stealth in the underwater environment.
- Surprisingly, much about their life history remains a mystery, including their lifespan and breeding habits.
Species Interaction
Snorkeling & Diving, Elusive Species
Due to the impressive camouflage and hiding abilities the Southern Velvetfish, it is rarely seen. They are however occasionally seen by divers or snorkelers with a keen eye and patience.
Scientific Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Scorpaeniformes
Family: Aploactinidae
Genus: Aploactisoma
Species: Aploactisoma Milesii
Conservation Status
The conservation status of the Southern Velvetfish has not specifically been assessed or listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). It’s important to note that conservation status assessments can change over time due to new data and research.
Recreational Viewing
- Snorkeling & Scuba
Finding: Difficult
Temperament: Shy
Location: Inner Reef, Outer Reef, Caves, Seagrass Beds
Danger: Venomous Spines
Elusive / Overlooked Species
Finding: Difficult
Temperament: Peaceful
Location: Inner reef, Outer reef, Caves
Danger: Dorsal and Pectoral Spine
