Eastern Kelpfish

Common Name: Eastern Kelpfish
Scientific Name: Chironemus marmoratus
Family: Chironemidae
Found: QLD, NSW VIC, TAS
Maximum Length: 40 cm

Eastern Kelpfish are from a small family that are closely related to Hawkfish, however they lack the tufts on the end of the dorsal fin spines that are typical of Hawkfish. Eastern Kelpfish are found in temperate Australian waters on the east coast including all of NSW. They are usually found in groups widely dispersed over rocky areas in shallow, surge prone waters and down to about 20 metres. They will generally be found resting on their ventral fins on top of rocks.

Eastern Kelpfish are a grey to brown colour with dark blotches on the body and small white spots over the body and fins. They have a pointed snout, large, bulging eyes and large pectoral fins.

Confusing Species: Rock Cale

Eastern Kelpfish are best differentiated from the Rock Cale by its pointed snout and bulging eyes. Rock Cale have a more rounded snout and eyes that are flatter to the body.