Western Foxfish

Interesting Info

• The Western Foxfish is primarily associated with Western Australia, it does have a wider distribution along the southern coast of Australia. In addition to Western Australia, this species can also be found in certain areas of South Australia and New South Wales.
• The Western Foxfish has a vibrant and distinctive coloration. They have a reddish-brown body with a series of irregular white spots covering their entire body, extending even onto the fins. This unique colour pattern helps them blend in with their surroundings on coral reefs.
• It has a slightly elongated body shape with a pointed snout and a mouth equipped with sharp teeth. These features help them feed on a variety of small invertebrates such as crustaceans, molluscs, and small fish.
• They are diurnal creatures, meaning they are most active during the daytime. They spend their days actively foraging for food and interacting with other individuals within their social hierarchy.
• The Western Foxfish is known to have a strong association with specific coral species, such as Acropora corals. They often seek shelter and protection within the branching formations of these corals, using them as hiding places and resting spots.
• Breeding habits of the Western Foxfish typically occur during the warmer months of the year, from late spring to early autumn (October to April). They are protogynous hermaphrodites, which means they start their lives as females and later transition to males.
• They have a unique courtship behaviour where the male performs a display to attract females. This display involves rapid body movements, changes in color intensity, and extending their dorsal fin and tail. The male may also construct small sand mounds or depressions on the reef as part of the courtship ritual.
• They have estimated lifespan between 20 – 25 years, but as long as 60 in certain studies.