Old Wife Fish

Enoplosus armatus

Habitat & Distribution :  Australian Waters

Diet : Small invertabrae

Size : Up to 50 cm

Lifespan : 10 years

Description

It has a deep and compressed body and concave forehead with silver-and-black, vertical, zebra-striped coloration, and by its two prominent dorsal fins.

Behavior

They are known for forming large schools or pairs, inhabiting rocky reefs and seagrass beds, and producing a distinct grunting or grinding noise when caught.

Reproduction

Through external fertilization, spawning in pairs during June, July, and August in temperate Australian waters.They form pairs from larger schools to release pelagic eggs

Communication and Perception

The most common form of communication noted for this species is a "grumbling," "grating," or "grinding" noise, which it produces by grinding its teeth. This sound is believed to be used to communicate with other fish, especially under stress.

Predator(s)

Sharks, larger predatory fish