Deceitful Velvetfish

Interesting Info

• The Deceitful Velvetfish is native to the coastal waters of Australia. They can be found along the western, northern and eastern coasts, ranging from Western Australia, the Northern Territory, and Queensland.
• They are a small, elongated fish with a flattened body. They have a velvety texture, covered in small, fine, hair-like spines, giving them a unique appearance. The colours of their bodies can vary, but they are often mottled in shades of brown, grey, and black, helping them camouflage in their habitat.
• The Deceitful Velvetfish is a carnivorous species, primarily feeding on small crustaceans, molluscs, and other small marine invertebrates. They use their specialized mouth and teeth to capture and consume their prey.
• They have a velvety texture that not only aids in camouflage but also acts as a defence mechanism. They have venomous spines along their dorsal fin that they can raise when threatened, potentially causing pain and discomfort to predators or human handlers.
• These fish are generally solitary in nature and do not form large schools. They are territorial and prefer to stake out their own space on the reef or seabed.
• The species name “Deceitful” comes from their remarkable ability to mimic other toxic or venomous fish species to deter potential predators. This mimicry serves as an effective defence mechanism.
• The breeding season of the Deceitful Velvetfish usually occurs during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn in Australia. During this time, the fish gather in shallow coastal areas to spawn. Females release their eggs, and males fertilize them externally.
• They has a relatively short lifespan, typically ranging from 1 to 2 years in the wild.