Southern Silver Drummer

Common Name: Southern Silver Drummer
Scientific Name: Kyphosus sydneyanus
Family: Kyphosidae
Found: QLD, NSW, VIC, TAS, SA, WA
Maximum Length: 75 cm

Southern Silver Drummer are found in temperate waters from southern Queensland to the lower mid-coast of WA. Their preferred habitat is around rocky reefs in high-energy zones and tidal channels. Juveniles seek shelter under seaweed.

Southern Silver Drummer are a silvery grey colour with a darker grey on top fading to a lighter silver below. They have a small dark spot below and at the base of the pectoral fin. Their fins are a darker grey turning almost black on the caudal fin. Juveniles are an orange to brown colour and develop white botches as they mature.

Confusing Species: Northern Silver Drummer

The range of the Northern Silver Drummer overlaps the Southern Silver Drummer throughout northern to mid-coast NSW, although they tend to form separate schools. The Northern Silver Drummer is best distinguished by the lack of a dark spot at the base of the pectoral fin that is found on the Southern Silver Drummer.