Otoliths of Common Australian Temperate Fish: A Photographic Guide

OTOLITHS OF COMMON AUSTRALIAN TEMPERATE FISH A PHOTOGRAPHIC GUIDE

Dianne Furlani, Rosemary Gales and David Pemberton

Otoliths of Common Australian Temperate Fish

Otoliths of Common Australian Temperate Fish A Photo g raph i c Gui de

Dianne Furlani, Rosemary Gales and David Pemberton

© CSIRO 2007 All rights reserved. Except under the conditions described in the Australian Copyright Act 1968 and subsequent amendments, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, duplicating or otherwise, without the prior permission of the copyright owner. Contact CSIRO PUBLISHING for all permission requests. National Library of Australia Cataloguing-in-Publication entry Furlani, Dianne. Otoliths of common Australian temperate fish: a photographic guide. Bibliography. Includes index. ISBN 9780643092556 (hbk.). 1. Otoliths – Classification – Pictorial works. 2. Otoliths – Laboratory manuals. 3. Fishes – Age determination – Australia. I. Gales, Rosemary, 1960– . II. Pemberton, David. III. Title. 597.1440994 Published by CSIRO PUBLISHING 150 Oxford Street (PO Box 1139) Collingwood VIC 3066 Australia Telephone: Local call: Fax: Email: Web site:

+61 3 9662 7666 1300 788 000 (Australia only) +61 3 9662 7555 [email protected] www.publish.csiro.com

Front cover Pseudophycis bachus (Red cod), distal surface of otolith; Seriolella brama (Blue warehou), proximal surface of otolith; Diodon nichthemerus (Globefish), proximal surface of otolith. Back cover Dolphin (photo: istockphoto); Tetractenos glaber (Smooth toadfish), proximal surface of otolith; Shy albatross (photo: DPIW). Set in 10/13 ITC New Baskerville and Optima Cover and text design by James Kelly Typeset by Desktop Concepts Pty Ltd, Melbourne Printed in Australia by Ligare

CONTENTS

Acknowledgements

vii

Introduction

1

Methods and materials

3

Definition of terms

5

Abbreviations

9

Species list (systematic order)

11

Otolith descriptions and images

27

References

200

Index

205

v

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Many individuals have provided their time and expertise in the development of this guide – and we thank them all. We are especially grateful to Tony Rees (CMAR) and Wieslaw Jablonski (UTAS) for assistance with the Scanning Electron Microscopy and to Peter Last for assistance with identification of selected fish species. The former Department of Sea Fisheries and the Inland Fisheries Commission are gratefully acknowledged for providing access to many prey specimens. We are indebted to Norbert Klages for his extensive input over the

protracted development of this guide. We are also grateful to Louise Bell for her knowledge in image preparation, Jo Eberhard for assistance with line drawings, and Roger Kirkwood for input into several regression analyses. We would particularly like to thank George Jackson and Sue Gibbs for their manuscript review and invaluable comments. And lastly, Oliver Gales and Caitlin Gunn are thanked for their assistance with final detail checking – Elsa Gales and Simon Gunn are thanked for letting them.

vii

INTRODUCTION

This guide is designed to describe the sagittal otoliths of fish species that occur predominantly in the temperate waters of south-east Australia, but may extend from Western Australia through to New South Wales. The species included are mostly benthic, benthopelagic or mesopelagic in origin, or from inshore coastal habitats. From the sampling opportunities available to us, a total of 141 species, from 68 families and 15 orders, were collected and included, but this guide does not cover all fish species known from the area. As such, there is still a need for further collection and identification of otoliths, particularly for pelagic species.

Otoliths of Common Australian Temperate Fish: A Photographic Guide has been compiled primarily as a reference work for use in studies of the dietary composition of a range of marine animals, including fish, sharks, cephalopods, mammals, penguins and other seabirds. Ecosystem studies have been recognised as being increasingly important to the understanding of the marine system (EPBC Act, 1999). The study of the diet of marine animals, particularly the identification of teleost otoliths from the gut content of piscivorous predators, is integral to an understanding of their ecology and interactions with commercial fisheries (Croxall 1987, Gales and Pemberton 1994, McMahon et al. 1999, Tasker et al. 2000, Bulman et al. 2001, Childerhouse et al. 2001, Bradshaw et al. 2003). These dietary studies are presently limited by the lack of taxonomic accuracy in identifying prey items. Otolith structures, primarily sagittal otoliths, vary widely among fish species and are recognised as being species-specific (Maisey 1987). Being dense, otoliths are one of the last features to be digested and can therefore often be obtained from stomach contents and scats, and their distinctive morphology compared with reference otoliths to identify the individual prey species. As the range of diet studies increases, it has become apparent that guides to the otoliths of the fish of different regions are an essential element in the toolbox of ecologists. Otolith publications are available for specific regions around the world: the northeast Atlantic (Harkonnen 1986), the north-west Atlantic (Campana 2004), the south Pacific (Garcia-Godos Naveda 2001), the western Indian Ocean and south-eastern Atlantic (Smale et al. 1995), the Southern Ocean (Hecht 1987) and the Australian Antarctic territory, including Macquarie and Heard Islands (Williams and McEldowney 1990). These publications may include some species occurring in Australian waters, but, until now, limited information on otoliths has been available for Australian marine species.

Alternative research uses of otoliths Otoliths, which are present in all bony fishes, consist of a calcium carbonate (usually aragonite) crystal that grows continuously by accretion over the life of the fish. They are contained within a membranous labyrinth in paired otic capsules on either side of the skull. Three pairs of otoliths are present – sagittae, asteriscus and lapillus – with the sagittae being the largest in most bony fishes. Primarily an organ associated with balance, movement and hearing (Tavolga et al. 1981, Popper and Lu 2000), findings from otolith research have provided fisheries scientists with several valuable tools, particularly in the areas of fish ageing and population studies. Otoliths have become the primary structure for estimation of fish age, predominantly using otolith increment analysis techniques in adults, and applying alizarin marking techniques in larvae and juveniles. As these techniques have developed, the importance of accuracy and precision in age determination has become increasingly evident (e.g. Beamish and McFarlane 1983, Chambers and Miller 1995, Secor et al. 1995, Campana 2001). As such, validations of methods for estimating fish age continue to be assessed for many species (e.g. Milton et al. 1995, Fowler and Short 1998, Stewart et al. 1999, Dwyer et al. 2001, Dwyer et al. 2003).

1

Otoliths of Common Australian Temperate Fish

Otoliths have proved valuable beyond the studies of feeding, age and growth alone. Research into studies of populations – stock assessment and stock discrimination, together with fish migration and movement studies – all benefit from data derived from otoliths. Through the examination of otolith microstructure, patterns of chemically or thermally induced increments have been used to distinguish between populations or stocks of fish (Gunn et al. 1992, Proctor et al. 1995, Secor 1999, Campana and Thorrold 2001, Gao et al. 2001, Bastow et al. 2002, and others). As the chemical composition can be distinct for different water masses, trace elements incorporated into the surface of the otolith reflect the physical and chemical characteristics of the ambient water, and can be used to discriminate between groups of fish that have spent part of their lives in different environments (e.g. Thresher 1999, Campana et al. 2000). Strontium to calcium ratios have been used as indicators of

salinity, to show migration between freshwater, estuaries and saltwater environments (e.g. Edmonds et al. 1999, Bath et al. 2000, Pontual et al. 2003). Stable isotopes, particularly oxygen, have been used as indicators of the metabolic and temperature history of fish (e.g. Kalish 1991, Weidman and Millner 2000, Lenanton et al. 2003, Ayvazian et al. 2004). Other disciplines have also benefited from otolith research. Studies of archaeology and palaeoclimatology have based reconstructions of palaeoclimate on the elemental and isotopic composition of recovered otoliths (Anderson et al. 1997, Patterson 1998, Ivany et al. 2000, Wurster and Patterson 2001). Studies of ecology and ecomorphology have drawn on the implications of otolith structures and function, and tested these variations for some species and habitats (Gauldie 1988, Sideleva and Zubina 1990, Lombarte 1992, Arellano et al. 1995, Paxton 2000, Volpedo and Echeverria 2003) to provide a further source of information to fisheries studies.

2

METHODS AND MATERIALS

and were stored as TIFF files using Powerpoint software. Raw images were enhanced by sharpening contrast and making images lighter or darker to increase clarity. As the minimum SEM magnification was X10, the largest otoliths needed to be scanned in parts and ‘pasted’ together. SEM images of DSF and TMAG collected otoliths were carried out at the University of Tasmania, Central Science Laboratories, and stored as micrographic negatives. The species contained in this guide have been arranged by phylogenetic sequence of Order and Family, with species then listed alphabetically by genus. Scientific names are shown in bold italic typeface, with common names and previous nomenclature also provided after the recognised species name. This allows easy cross-referencing of predator–prey information from published literature where previous taxonomic naming has been used. Taxonomic names follow the nomenclature contained within the Codes for Australian Aquatic Biota (CAAB) website (http://www.marine.csiro.au/ caab/) (Rees et al. 2000) and, where included, other names cited in Gomon et al. (1994) and Last et al. (1983). For species not included in these latter references, previous taxonomic names follow the California Academy of Sciences, Catalog of Fishes On-line nomenclature, (http://www.calacademy.org/ research/ichthyology/catalog/fishcatsearch.html) which is regularly updated. Similarly, we have included the official common name for each species in bold typeface (obtained from CAAB), followed in brackets by other previously used common names. Fish length and weight data has been recorded at point of capture/collection. Otolith length data has been recorded at the time of otolith extraction, after cleaning. Where available, otolith weight and primordium position are from the Marine and Freshwater Resources Institute (MAFRI – currently Central Ageing Facility (CAF)) Final Reports 1 and 2, compiled for CSIRO from material collected during the listed Southern Surveyor research

The material described and illustrated in this guide was collected from fishing boats working off the north-west and south coast of Tasmania, between 1985 and 1987, and from CSIRO Southern Surveyor research cruises between Wilsons Promontory (Victoria) and Bermagui (New South Wales), between April and December 1996, predominantly trawling in depths from 25 to 200 m. In addition, species were collected at the Melbourne markets from fishing operations in Bass Strait waters. Once fish were identified, individual fish lengths and weights were recorded and otoliths removed and stored in seed envelopes or gelatin capsules. Otoliths were later soaked in distilled water and cleaned with a soft brush to remove any blood, tissue or otic fluids. Cleaned otoliths were weighed, measured and mounted onto numbered stubs, using double-sided carbon tape. Stub numbers were cross-referenced to the individual species details. Mounted otoliths were lightly sputter-coated as a requirement for scanning electron microscopy. Samples from CSIRO Marine and Atmospheric Research (CMAR) were sputter-coated with platinum, and samples from Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) and Department of Sea Fisheries (DSF – currently Tasmanian Aquaculture and Fisheries Institute) were sputter-coated with gold. All mounted otoliths where then stored in lidded containers to minimise dust or damage. Scanning electron micrograph (SEM) images were taken of all otoliths. Descriptions were based on these images and original specimens. Where possible, a size range of otoliths from each specimen was photographed and described. Where there was extensive variation with ontogeny, this was also stated. All material described are sagittal otoliths, either left or right otoliths, and generally proximal side only, unless diagnostic features were found to occur on the distal surface. These instances are individually noted. SEM images from CSIRO collected otoliths were carried out at the CSIRO laboratories in Hobart

3

Otoliths of Common Australian Temperate Fish

cruises. Brief details of distribution and ecology have also been provided, as a means of further aiding species identification. Line drawings of fish have been provided for each species. Used together with distributional and ecological information, these provide a quick reference to the fish morphology, and some assumption of the likelihood of predator–prey interactions. Line drawings have been predominantly taken from Fishes of Tasmania (Last et al. 1983), with permission from copyright holders, Department of Primary Industry and Water, Tasmania. The remainder are sourced from Gomon et al. (1994) or redrawn from Smith and Heemstra (1986). For each fish species, references are made to known data or published information on predators of that species. In many cases references identify the prey fish to only the Family or Genus level. In these instances, comment is made that the particular predator preys upon undistinguished species of that particular Family or Genus. If the respective group has more than one species represented in the atlas, we place the reference with the first species.

Because of the general lack of availability of this data to date, it was considered important to include all available length/weight data for the species included. As such, some data sets are very small. It should be emphasised that n and R values should be carefully noted when using these regressions. Further limitations do exist in this technique, for example, for juvenile fishes or after fish reach maximum size. Therefore, the size of fish should only be estimated over the size distribution of the sampled dataset. Where the data used contains both juvenile and adult specimens, this has also been noted and should be taken into account. Where available, morphometric data has been provided for each species within this guide. Data includes ratios for conversion of otolith weight to fish length, otolith length to fish length, and fish length to fish weight. With few exceptions, this data has not previously been reported. It will further assist in studies of dietary analysis and energetics.

Distribution, ecology and predator–prey information For each species contained in this guide, a brief distribution and ecology section has been provided. For dietary studies, using distribution and ecology data coupled with the distributional range of the predator from which the sample was taken, will enable the user to make some judgement on the likelihood of the predator–prey relationship. This may immediately eliminate some species from further consideration, provided the knowledge of the fauna of the area and the distribution of the particular species is considered to be reasonably well understood. Where available, predator–prey information has been included in this guide. But there remains much to learn – the marine food web and trophic structure of the temperate Australian region is complex. As such, the ability to identify trophic linkages through identification of prey remains is a significant tool in increasing our understanding of ecosystem functioning and the effects of perturbations on our marine environment.

Morphometric data sets Early morphometric studies identified a positive relationship between fish size and otolith size (Trout 1954, Templemann and Squires 1956), between fish weight and otolith length (Casteel 1974), and later between fish length and otolith length (Frost and Lowry 1981, Wyllie Echeverria 1987, Gamboa 1991). Generally, a simple linear regression can be used to describe these relationships. For species within this guide, information regarding fish length, fish weight, otolith weight and otolith length were compiled from original unpublished data, with standard error and sample values provided. The source of this data is noted and includes morphometric measurements from CMAR research cruises (1984–86 and 1995–2002) and TMAG measurements collected during predator– prey studies (1984–90).

4

DEFINITION OF TERMS

The predominant otolith features included in descriptions are shown in Figure 1 using a generalised otolith. Otolith descriptions for each species follow a standardised format. Some terms are in bold type to aid navigation. Each description begins with the size and shape of the otolith.

Margin: shape and sculpturing of otolith edges. The general outline of the dorsal, ventral and posterior margins are given, followed by the sculpturing – that is ‘the finer surface features’ of that margin. Terms are illustrated in Figure 3, and follow the standard of Smale et al. (1995). Other terms used may include: • distal surface: the face of the otolith directed towards the exterior of the lateral surface of the fish, generally lacking distinct features; classified as seen in cross section as convex, concave or flat. • proximal surface: the face of the otolith directed towards the interior of the fish, showing prominent characteristic otolith features; classified as seen in cross section as convex, concave or flat.

Size: using otolith diameter from posterior to anterior margin, otoliths were classed as: • very small (<3 mm diameter). • small (3–5 mm). • medium (>5–8 mm). • large (>8 mm). Scale bars: used in all figures are 1 mm, unless otherwise noted.

Sulcus or sulcus groove: (also known as sulcus acusticus), a longitudinal depression on the proximal surface of the otolith. It may be divided into ostium (that portion of the sulcus anterior to the neck) and cauda (that portion of the sulcus posterior to the neck). For species within this guide, the sulcus is described according to the degree of differentiation as:

Shape: terms used to describe otolith shape are illustrated in Figure 2, and follow the standards and terminology of Smale et al. (1995). The following terms then appear in the same sequence as used in the otolith descriptions:

Figure 1

5

Otoliths of Common Australian Temperate Fish

Rostrum: where present, the portion of the otolith extending ventrally and anteriorly from the excisura notch.

• archaesulcoid: no differentiation into ostium and cauda and no features on floor of sulcus. • pseudo-archaesulcoid: no differentiation into ostium and cauda, but features are present on the floor of the sulcus. • heterosulcoid: ostium and cauda differentiated and unequal. • homosulcoid: ostium and cauda differentiated and equal.

Antirostrum: where present, the portion of the otolith extending dorsally and anteriorly from the excisura notch. Excisura: where present, the opening of the sulcus onto the otolith anterior margin; often with an associated notch.

The opening of the sulcus is generally onto one or more margins. Species within this guide fall into four categories, and are described as: • ostial: sulcus opens onto the anterior otolith margin only. • ostio-caudal: sulcus opens onto the anterior and posterior margins. • caudal: sulcus opens onto the posterior otolith margin only. • mesial: the sulcus is only open to the proximal (mesial) surface of the otolith and thus rostrum, antirostrum and excisura are absent.

Pseudo-rostrum: where present, the equivalent of a rostrum, but extending ventrally and posteriorly. This feature is only present in otoliths with a sulcul opening at the posterior margin of the otolith. Pseudo-antirostrum: where present, the equivalent of an antirostrum, but extending dorsally and posteriorly. This feature is only present in otoliths with a sulcul opening at the posterior margin of the otolith. Pseudo-excisura: where present, the equivalent of an excisura in an otolith with a sulcul opening at the posterior margin.

Colliculum: a raised part of the sulcus floor, occuring in the ostium (anterior colliculum) or in the cauda (posterior colliculum). (A secondary crest (pseudocolliculum ) may also occur, generally just above the crista inferior.) Where determined, the colliculum is described as: • homomorph: undifferentiated, or with two colliculi almost equal in size. • heteromorph: with two distinctly different colliculi. Collum: where present, a wall-like structure separating ostium and cauda.

Dorsal area and ventral area: the area on the proximal surface of the otolith lying dorsal/ventral to the sulcus. (May not be included in description if features are absent or non-descript.) May include: • dorsal or ventral depression: a depression in the dorsal/ventral area that is morphologically different from the rest of that area. • dorsal or ventral groove: narrow, elongate depression often running parallel to the otolith margin.

Crista: the rim of the sulcus dorsally (crista superior) and ventrally (crista inferior), ranging in development from absent or broken, through to a continuous, extended feature, which in turn may be poorly developed, or well developed, through to a raised, ridge-like margin to the sulcus.

Primordium: the nuclear region, which represents the innermost region of the otolith, formed during embryonic development; forms the commencement area for growth increments used for age estimates in fish. Description only provided where available from documented otolith sectioning.

6

Definition of terms

Anvil-shaped

Circular

Discoid

Elliptic

Fusiform

Hour-glass

Oblong

Obovate

Oval

Ovate

Pyriform

Rectangular

Rhomboidal

Spindle-shaped

Square

Tall

Tear-drop

Triangular

Trilobate

Figure 2. Diagrams (after Smale et al. 1995 and Hecht 1987) illustrating terms used in this guide to describe otolith shape. (Drawings by J. Eberhard.)

7

Otoliths of Common Australian Temperate Fish

Entire

Sinuate

Lobed

Crenate

Irregular

Dentate

Serrate Figure 3. Diagrams (after Smale et al. 1995 and Hecht 1987) illustrating terms used to describe otolith margin sculpturing. (Drawings by J. Eberhard.)

8

ABBREVIATIONS

ID initials:

Morphometry data source:

Alan Williams, CSIRO Marine and Atmospheric Research, Tasmania BG: Brian Griffiths, CSIRO Marine and Atmospheric Research, Tasmania CL: Chris Lalas, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand DMF: Dianne M. Furlani, CSIRO Marine and Atmospheric Research, Tasmania DSF: Department of Sea Fisheries, Tasmania (currently TAFI) GF: Gwen Fenton, University of Tasmania IASOS: Institute for Antarctic and Southern Ocean Studies, University of Tasmania IFC: Inland Fisheries Commission, Hobart, Tasmania LC: Laurie Cook, Inland Fisheries Commission, Hobart, Tasmania PD: Peter Davies, Inland Fisheries Commission, Hobart, Tasmania RG: Rosemary Gales, Department of Primary Industries and Water, Tasmania RW: Robert White, University of Tasmania SD: Stephanie Davenport, CSIRO Marine and Atmospheric Research, Hobart, Tasmania TAFI: Tasmanian Aquaculture and Fisheries Institute, University of Tasmania

CMAR: CSIRO Marine and Atmospheric Research, Hobart, Tasmania TMAG: Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, Hobart, Tasmania

AW:

Measurements: FL:

SL: TL:

OL:

OW:

Fork Length – length of fish from tip of snout to the posterior of the medial caudal-fin ray, in millimetres. Standard Length – tip of snout to last caudal vertebra, in millimetres. Total Length – length of fish from tip of snout to the extended longest caudal finray, in millimetres. Otolith Length – length of otolith from the anterior to the posterior margin, in millimetres. Otolith Weight – weight of whole, cleaned and air-dried otolith, in milligrams.

Catalogue reference material deposited at: CMAR: DMF##, SD##, BG## TMAG: ##.##P#, BB#, BW#, CR, CRI SH#, GC#, GRE#, KD#, PE S#, SD#, W, WD

9

SPECIES LIST (SYSTEMATIC ORDER)

Species are listed taxonomically within each Order and alphabetically within each Family. Thumbnail images have been provided as a provisional means of otolith identification, with full-sized images and complete descriptions contained on the individual species pages.

Order: Family:

Species and Common name

Otolith image (scale bar = 1mm):

Page:

Clupeiformes: Clupeidae Sardinops neopilchardus Australian pilchard

28

Spratelloides robustus Blue sprat

30

Sprattus novaehollandiae Australian sprat

31

Engraulis australis Australian anchovy

32

Notacanthus sexspinis Southern spineback

33

Oncorhynchus mykiss Rainbow trout

34

Engraulidae

Notacanthiformes: Notacanthidae

Salmoniformes: Salmonidae

11

Otoliths of Common Australian Temperate Fish

Order: Family:

Species and Common name

Otolith image (scale bar = 1mm):

Page:

Galaxiidae Lovettia sealii Tasmanian whitebait

35

Argentina australiae Silverside

36

Phosichthys argenteus Silver lightfish

37

Argyropelecus gigas Giant hatchetfish

38

Persparsia kopua Sprangled tubeshoulder

39

Paraulopus nigripinnis Blacktip cucumberfish

40

Diaphus danae Dana lanternfish

41

Diaphus hudsoni Hudson’s lanternfish

42

Diaphus metopoclampus Bluntnose lanternfish

43

Argentinidae

Phosichthyidae

Sternoptychidae

Platytroctidae

Aulopiformes: Paraulopidae

Myctophiformes: Myctophidae

12

Contents

Order: Family:

Species and Common name

Otolith image (scale bar = 1mm):

Page:

Myctophidae (cont.) Diaphus ostenfeldi Ostenfeld’s lanternfish

44

Electrona rissoi Risso’s lanternfish

45

Hygophum hanseni Hansen’s lanternfish

46

Lampanyctodes hectoris Hector’s lanternfish

47

Lampanyctus australis Austral lanternfish

48

Symbolophorus barnardi Barnard’s lanternfish

49

Notophycis marginata Forkbeard cod

50

Pseudophycis bachus Red cod

52

Macruronus novaezelandiae Blue grenadier

54

Gadiformes: Moridae

Merlucciidae

13

Otoliths of Common Australian Temperate Fish

Order: Family:

Species and Common name

Otolith image (scale bar = 1mm):

Page:

Macrouridae Caelorinchus australis Southern whiptail

55

Caelorinchus fasciatus Banded whiptail

56

Caelorinchus maurofasciatus Falseband whiptail

57

Lepidorhynchus denticulatus Toothed whiptail

58

Lucigadus nigromaculata Blackspot whiptail

59

Genypterus blacodes Pink ling

60

Hyporhamphus melanochir Southern garfish

61

Atherinason hepsetoides Smallscale hardyhead

62

Atherinosoma microstoma Smallmouth hardyhead

63

Ophidiiformes: Ophidiidae

Atheriniformes: Hemiramphidae

Atherinidae

14

Contents

Order: Family:

Species and Common name

Otolith image (scale bar = 1mm):

Page:

Atherinidae (cont.) Kestratherina brevirostris Shortsnout hardyhead

64

Kestratherina esox Pikehead hardyhead

65

Leptatherina presbyteroides Silverfish

66

Hoplostethus intermedius Blacktip sawbelly

67

Beryx decadactylus Imperador

68

Beryx splendens Alfonsino

69

Centroberyx affinis Redfish

70

Centroberyx gerrardi Bight redfish

72

Cyttus australis Silver dory

74

Beryciformes: Trachichthyidae

Berycidae

Zeiformes: Cyttidae

15

Otoliths of Common Australian Temperate Fish

Order: Family:

Species and Common name

Otolith image (scale bar = 1mm):

Page:

Cyttidae (cont.) Cyttus novaezelandiae New Zealand dory

75

Cyttus traversi King dory

76

Zenopsis nebulosus Mirror dory

77

Zeus faber John dory

78

Allocyttus verrucosus Warty oreodory

79

Neocyttus rhomboidalis Spikey oreodory

80

Macrorhamphosus scolopax Common bellowsfish

81

Neosebastes scorpaenoides Common gurnard perch

82

Neosebastes thetidis Thetis fish

83

Zeidae

Oreosomatidae

Sygnathiformes: Macrorhamphosidae

Scorpaeniformes: Neosebastidae

16

Contents

Order: Family:

Species and Common name

Otolith image (scale bar = 1mm):

Page:

Sebastidae Helicolenus barathri Bigeye ocean perch

84

Helicolenus percoides Reef ocean perch

86

Scorpaena papillosa Southern red scorpionfish

87

Glyptauchen panduratus Goblinfish

88

Gymnapistes marmoratus Soldierfish

89

Chelidonichthys kumu Red gurnard

90

Lepidotrigla modesta Cocky gurnard

91

Lepidotrigla mulhalli Roundsnout gurnard

92

Lepidotrigla papilio Spiny Gurnard

93

Lepidotrigla vanessa Butterfly gurnard

94

Scorpaenidae

Triglidae

17

Otoliths of Common Australian Temperate Fish

Order: Family:

Species and Common name

Otolith image (scale bar = 1mm):

Page:

Triglidae (cont.) Pterygotrigla polyommata Latchet

96

Neoplatycephalus aurimaculatus Toothy flathead

97

Neoplatycephalus conatus Deepwater flathead

98

Neoplatycephalus richardsoni Tiger flathead

99

Platycephalidae

Platycephalus bassensis Southern sand flathead

100

Hoplichthys haswelli Deepsea flathead

101

Caesioperca lepidoptera Butterfly perch

102

Caesioperca rasor Barber perch

103

Hypoplectrodes annulata Blackband seaperch

104

Hoplichthidae

Perciformes: Serranidae

18

Contents

Order: Family:

Species and Common name

Otolith image (scale bar = 1mm):

Page:

Serranidae (cont.) Lepidoperca pulchella Eastern orange perch

105

Apogonops anomalus Threespine cardinalfish

106

Polyprion oxygeneios Hapuku

108

Epigonus denticulatus White deepsea cardinalfish

109

Epigonus lenimen Bigeye deepsea cardinalfish

110

Vincentia conspersa Southern cardinalfish

111

Dinolestes lewini Longfin pike

112

Sillaginodes punctata King George whiting

113

Sillago bassensis Southern school whiting

114

Sillago flindersi Eastern school whiting

115

Acropomatidae

Epigonidae

Apogonidae

Dinolestidae

Sillaginidae

19

Otoliths of Common Australian Temperate Fish

Order: Family:

Species and Common name

Otolith image (scale bar = 1mm):

Page:

Carangidae Pseudocaranx dentex Silver trevally

116

Trachurus declivis Common jack mackerel

118

Arripis trutta Eastern Australian Salmon

120

Emmelichthys nitidus Redbait

122

Parequula melbournensis Silverbelly

124

Acanthopagrus butcheri Black bream

125

Pagrus auratus Snapper

126

Pempheris multiradiata Bigscale bullseye

127

Upeneichthys vlamingii Blue spotted goatfish

128

Atypichthys strigatus Mado

129

Arripidae

Emmelichthyidae

Gerreidae

Sparidae

Pempheridae

Mullidae

Kyphosidae

20

Contents

Order: Family:

Species and Common name

Otolith image (scale bar = 1mm):

Page:

Scorpididae Scorpis lineolata Silver sweep

130

Aplodactylus arctidens Marblefish

131

Nemadactylus douglasii Grey morwong

132

Nemadactylus macropterus Jackass morwong

134

Latridopsis forsteri Bastard trumpeter

136

Latris lineata Striped trumpeter

137

Aldrichetta forsteri Yelloweye mullet

138

Parma microlepis White-ear

140

Notolabrus fucicola Purple wrasse

141

Notolabrus tetricus Bluethroat wrasse

142

Aplodactylidae

Cheilodactylidae

Latrididae

Mugilidae

Pomacentridae

Labridae

21

Otoliths of Common Australian Temperate Fish

Order: Family:

Species and Common name

Otolith image (scale bar = 1mm):

Page:

Labridae (cont.) Ophthalmolepis lineolatus Southern maori wrasse

144

Pictilabrus laticlavius Senator wrasse

145

Pseudolabrus mortonii Rosy wrasse

146

Neoodax balteatus Little weed whiting

147

Ichthyscopus barbatus Fringe stargazer

148

Kathetostoma canaster Speckled stargazer

149

Kathetostoma laeve Common stargazer

150

Crapatalus munroi Pink sandfish

152

Lesueurina platycephala Flathead sandfish

154

Pseudaphritis urvillii Congolli

156

Odacidae

Uranoscopidae

Leptoscopidae

Bovichthyidae

22

Contents

Order: Family:

Species and Common name

Otolith image (scale bar = 1mm):

Page:

Clinidae Cristiceps australis Southern crested weedfish

158 *scale bar = 0.1 mm

Heteroclinus perspicillatus Common weedfish

160

Parablennius tasmanianus Tasmanian blenny

162

Foetorepus calauropomus Common stinkfish

163

Afurcagobius tamarensis Tamar goby

164

Nesogobius pulchellus Sailfin goby

165

Nesogobius sp.1 Girdled goby

166

Nesogobius sp.2 Twin-barred goby

168

Rexea solandri Gemfish

169

Thyrsites atun Barracouta

170

Blenniidae

Callionymidae

Gobiidae

Gempylidae

23

Otoliths of Common Australian Temperate Fish

Order: Family:

Species and Common name

Otolith image (scale bar = 1mm):

Page:

Trichiuridae Lepidopus caudatus Frostfish

172

Scomber australasicus Blue mackerel

173

Seriolella brama Blue warehou

174

Seriolella punctata Silver warehou

176

Arnoglossus andrewsi Andrew’s flounder

177

Arnoglossus muelleri Mueller’s flounder

178

Lophonectes gallus Crested flounder

179

Ammotretis rostratus Longsnout flounder

180

Azygopus pinnifasciatus Band-fin flounder

182

Scombridae

Centrolophidae

Pleuronectiformes: Bothidae

Pleuronectidae

24

Contents

Order: Family:

Species and Common name

Otolith image (scale bar = 1mm):

Page:

Pleuronectidae (cont.) Rhombosolea tapirina Greenback flounder

184

Zebrias scalaris Manyband sole

186

Soleidae

Tetraodontiformes: Monacanthidae

Acanthaluteres spilomelanurus Bridled leatherjacket 188 *scale bar = 0.1 mm Acanthaluteres vittiger Toothbrush leatherjacket

190

Brachaluteres jacksonianus Southern pygmy leatherjacket

191

Meuschenia freycineti Sixspine leatherjacket

192

Meuschenia scaber Velvet leatherjacket

194

Paramonacanthus filicauda Threadfin leatherjacket

195

Anoplocapros inermis Eastern smooth boxfish

196

Ostraciidae

25

Otoliths of Common Australian Temperate Fish

Order: Family:

Species and Common name

Otolith image (scale bar = 1mm):

Page:

Aracana aurita Shaw’s cowfish

197

Tetractenos glaber Smooth toadfish

198

Diodon nichthemerus Globefish

199

Tetraodontidae

Diodontidae

26

OTOLITH DESCRIPTIONS AND IMAGES

CLUPEIFORMES

Order: CLUPEIFORMES Family: Clupeidae Species: Sardinops neopilchardus Common names: Australian pilchard (sardine) Previous nomenclature: Clupea neopilchardus, Sardinops sagax ocellatus

Distribution and ecology Southern Queensland through to Western Australia, and Tasmania (most commonly in Bass Strait); also New Zealand (Last et al. 1983); form large schools in temperate (summer) and subtropical waters (winter); reaches 250 mm in length (Edgar 1997).

Material Description based on otoliths of four specimens of 65–152 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference 13.3P4, P7, P10 and P12. Catch locality Victoria. ID by RG. Otolith description Otolith very small, ovate. Dorsal margin irregular; ventral margin dentate; posterior margin bluntly rounded and entire. Sulcus groove very deep, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Collum ranging from severely constricted to ill defined. Ostium larger than cauda. Ostium extends onto the rostrum. Crista superior and crista inferior distinct and ridge-like; crista superior less well developed over the cauda than over the ostium; crista inferior well developed along the entire sulcus and crenate on its dorsal surface. Rostrum elongate, robust and rounded. Antirostrum considerably shorter than rostrum but distinct, sometimes with an upturned end. Excisura present; angle acute. Dorsal area depression broad and narrow above ostium and collum. Ventral area depression absent with the crista inferior dominating the area.

Predator–prey information Known prey of little penguin (Eudyptula minor) (Montague and Cullen 1987, Klomp and Wooller 1988, Gales and Pemberton 1990, Chiaradia et al. 2003), southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii) (Coleman and Mobley 1984), yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) (Coleman and Mobley 1984, Young et al. 2001), Australian fur seal (Arctocpehalus pusillus doriferus) (Hume et al. 2004), little black cormorant (Phalacrocorax sulcirostris) (Marchant and Higgins 1990), pied cormorant (Phalacrocorax varius) (Marchant and Higgins 1990), short-tailed shearwaters (Puffinus tenuirostris) (Montague et al. 1984), crested tern (Sterna bergii) and little tern (Sterna albifrons) (Higgins and Davies 1996). Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of shy albatross (Hedd et al. 2001), great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) and Caspian tern (Sterna caspia) (Marchant and Higgins 1990, 1996), crested terns (Chiaradia et al. 2002), white-fronted tern (Sterna striata), little tern (Sterna albifrons) and fairy tern (Sterna nereis) (Higgins and Davies 1996).

Morphometry SL = 32.07 OL1.35 mm n = 24; Std Err Est = 0.057; R = 0.96; Otolith length range = 1.9–3.15 mm (TMAG) Mass = 6.43 × 10 –6SL3.11 g n = 29; R = 0.96; Fish length range = 68–154 mm SL (TMAG)

28

CLUPEIFORMES

Otolith of Sardinops neopilchardus from a fish of 152 mm SL

29

CLUPEIFORMES

Order: CLUPEIFORMES Family: Clupeidae Species: Spratelloides robustus Common name: Blue sprat

Mass = 3.54 × 10 –7 TL3.67 g n = 23; Std Err Est = 0.0867; R = 0.99; Fish length range = 45–73 mm TL (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 72 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 13.1P23. Catch locality Victoria. ID by RG.

Distribution and ecology Southern Queensland through to Western Australia, and Tasmania (Last et al. 1983), (most commonly in Bass Strait); schools in shallow bays and inlets; reaches 100 mm in length.

Otolith description Otolith very small, ovate. Dorsal margin entire to gently lobed; ventral margin lobed to entire; posterior margin straight and entire. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium extends along the rostrum and is larger than the cauda. Colliculum poorly defined and heteromorph. Collum indistinct. Crista distinct and ridge-like over ostium, but less well developed over cauda. Rostrum robust, elongate and rounded. Antirostrum short, broad and pointed. Excisura moderate; angle acute. Dorsal area depression narrow above collum. Ventral area depression absent.

Predator–prey information Known prey of little penguin (Eudyptula minor) (Klomp and Wooller 1988, Gales and Pemberton 1990), crested tern (Sterna bergii), white-fronted tern (Sterna striata) and little tern (Sterna albifrons) (Higgins and Davies 1996).

Morphometry TL = 54.33 OL1.02 mm n = 23; Std Err Est = 0.0495; R = 0.94; Otolith length range = 1.5–3.5 mm (TMAG)

Otolith of Spratelloides robustus from a fish of 72 mm TL

30

CLUPEIFORMES

Order: CLUPEIFORMES Family: Clupeidae Species: Sprattus novaehollandiae Common name: Australian sprat Previous nomenclature: Clupea bassensis, Sprattus bassensis

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 122 and 127 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference 13.2P1 and P2. Catch locality Melbourne. ID by RG.

Distribution and ecology Tasmania and South Australia; forms large schools in deep bays and channels of southern Tasmania; reaches 150 mm in length (Last et al. 1983).

Otolith description Otolith small, ovate. Dorsal margin and posterior margin moderately lobed; ventral margin sinuate. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium larger than cauda. Colliculum heteromorph; anterior colliculum well defined and extending onto rostrum; posterior colliculum poorly developed. Collum absent. Crista superior well defined and ridge-like and split into anterior and posterior sections over the ostium and cauda; crista inferior prominent and ridge-like and extending onto the rostrum. Rostrum elongate and robust, rounded. Antirostrum small and rounded. Excisura present; angle acute between 60° and 80°. Dorsal area depression present and fan shaped. Ventral area depression absent with the crista inferior dominating the area.

Predator–prey information Known prey of little penguin (Eudyptula minor) (Gales and Pemberton 1990) and the pied cormorant (Phalacrocorax varius) (Marchant and Higgins 1990). Undistinguished Sprattus species are known prey of New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsterii) (Fea et al. 1999).

Otolith of Sprattus novaehollandiae from a fish of 127 mm SL. (Note: Some debris is present on the otolith surface.)

31

CLUPEIFORMES

Order: CLUPEIFORMES Family: Engraulidae Species: Engraulis australis Common names: Australian anchovy (southern anchovy) Previous nomenclature: Engraulis antipodum

Mass = 1.71 × 10 –6SL3.38 g n = 24; Std Err Est = 0.093; R = 0.99; Fish length range = 71–126 mm SL (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 67 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference 13.4P77. Catch locality southern Tasmania. ID by RG.

Distribution and ecology Southern New South Wales to southern Western Australia, and Tasmania; also New Zealand; commonly in bays and inlets; reaches 150 mm in length (Last et al. 1983).

Otolith description Otolith small/medium, ovate to fusiform. Dorsal margin and posterior margin slightly lobed; ventral margin lobed at anterior and posterior regions, but characteristically dentate in mid region. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum homomorph; anterior colliculum low and indistinct. Crista superior distinct between ostium and cauda; crista inferior ridge-like and extends along length of colliculum. Rostrum elongate, broad and pointed. Antirostrum small and blunt. Excisura moderate; angle acute. Dorsal area depression slight along length of crista superior. Ventral area depression absent.

Predator–prey information Known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Gales and Pemberton 1994), little penguin (Eudyptula minor) (Montague and Cullen 1987, Klomp and Wooller 1988, Gales and Pemberton 1990, Chiaradia et al. 2003), short-tailed shearwaters (Puffinus tenuirostris) (Montague et al. 1984), westland petrel (Procellaria westlandica) (Freeman 1998), Australasian gannet (Morus serrator) (Brothers et al. 1993), great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) and pied cormorant (Phalacrocorax varius) (Marchant and Higgins 1990), crested tern (Sterna bergii) (Chiaradia et al. 2002) and white-fronted tern (Sterna striata) (Higgins and Davies 1996).

Morphometry SL = 45.64 OL0.74 mm n = 40; Std Err Est = 0.097; R = 0.91; Otolith length range = 1.0–3.5 mm (TMAG)

Otolith of Engraulis australis from a fish of 67 mm SL

32

N OTAC A N T H I F O R M E S

Order: NOTACANTHIFORMES Family: Notacanthidae Species: Notacanthus sexspinis Common names: Southern spineback (spiny eel)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 490 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference BG1. Catch locality Maria Island, Tasmania. Depth unknown. ID by BG.

Morphometry TL = 368.706 OL0.167 mm n = 4; Std Err Est = 0.054; R = 0.695; Otolith length range = 1.2–2.1 mm (CMAR) Mass = 9.71 × 10 –14 TL5.756 g n = 4; Std Err Est = 0.144; R = 0.949; Fish length range = 380–440 mm TL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith very small, square-discoid. Dorsal margin rounded; ventral margin flattened or rounded, and irregular, and posterior margin irregular. Sulcus groove archaesulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum absent. Collum absent. Crista superior well developed, overhangs ostium; crista inferior poorly developed, may form low ridge under anterior sulcus. Rostrum short and broad, rounded. Antirostrum small and rounded. Excisura narrow when present; notch shallow; angle wide. Dorsal area nodular with groove to posterior horseshoe-shaped depression (Smale et al. 1995).

Distribution and ecology Western Australia to New South Wales, and Tasmania; also New Zealand and throughout Indian and Pacific Oceans; demersal on continental slope in 200 to 1100 m depth; reaches 600 mm in length (Last et al. 1983, May and Maxwell 1986, Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Notacanthus sexspinis from a fish of 490 mm SL

33

SALMONIFORMES

Order: SALMONIFORMES Family: Salmonidae Species: Oncorhynchus mykiss Common names: Rainbow trout (*steelhead) Previous nomenclature: Salmo gairdnerii

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 182 and 198 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference 16.1P1-2 (otolith provided by IFC). Catch locality southern Tasmania. ID by RG.

Morphometry No data are available. Distribution and ecology Northern hemisphere species stocked in freshwaters from southern Queensland to south-western Western Australia, and Tasmania, some with connections to the sea; disperses to the continental shelf when at sea; reaches 1200 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). *Anadromous individuals known as steelheads.

Otolith description Otolith small, roughly ovate. Dorsal margin lobed; ventral margin entire. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening generally ostio-caudal. Colliculum heteromorph with ostium restricted to face of rostrum. Crista superior and inferior well developed and ridgelike. Rostrum broad and robust with irregular dorsal margin. Antirostrum indistinct. Excisura present; angle wide. Dorsal area depression narrow, shallow above length of sulcus.

Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Oncorhynchus mykiss from a fish of 182 mm SL

34

SALMONIFORMES

Order: SALMONIFORMES Family: Galaxiidae Species: Lovettia sealii Common name: Tasmanian whitebait

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 52 and 60 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 16.5P84 and P87 (otolith provided by IFC). Catch locality unknown. ID by PD.

Morphometry No data are available. Distribution and ecology Tasmania; anadromous – adults spawn in rivers and young are carried downstream to the sea; reaches 77 mm in length (Last et al. 1983).

Otolith description Otolith very small, discoid with little relief. All margins entire. Sulcus groove generally homosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum constricted and separates ostium and cauda. Crista superior and inferior poorly developed. Rostrum present and rounded. Antirostrum absent. Excisura present; angle wide. Dorsal area and ventral area without depression.

Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Lovettia sealii from a fish of 46 mm SL. (Note: Some debris is present on the otolith surface.)

35

SALMONIFORMES

Order: SALMONIFORMES Family: Argentinidae Species: Argentina australiae Common name: Silverside Previous nomenclature: Argentina elongate australiae

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 132 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 16.22P1. Catch locality Storm Bay. ID by RG.

Distribution and ecology Central New South Wales to Western Australia, and Tasmania; coastal and offshore waters from 50 to 400 m depth; reaches 190 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith small, ovate. Dorsal margin gently lobed; ventral margin entire to gently sinuate. Sulcus groove homosulcoid; opening ostial, although near ostiocaudal. Ostium mainly restricted to region of rostrum. Colliculum heteromorph. Crista superior and inferior ridge-like; crista inferior extending along entire length of rostrum. Rostrum robust and rounded. Antirostrum indistinct. Excisura shallow; angle wide. Dorsal area gently lobed towards otolith extremity with shallow depression along crista margin. Ventral area depression slight along crista margin.

Predator–prey information An important prey item for many commercial fish species (Coleman and Mobley 1984) and known prey of little penguin (Eudyptula minor) (Gales and Pemberton 1990) and Australian fur seal (Arctocpehalus pusillus doriferus) (Hume et al. 2004).

Otolith of Argentina australiae from a fish of 132 mm TL

36

SALMONIFORMES

Order: SALMONIFORMES Family: Phosichthyidae Species: Phosichthys argenteus Common names: Silver lightfish (silver lighthouse fish) Previous nomenclature: Photichthys argenteus

Morphometry (Note: Data includes juvenile and adult specimens.) FL = 94.538 OW 0.361 mm n = 24; Std Err Est = 0.047; R = 0.994; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 0.3–13.80 mg Fish length range = 77–246 mm FL (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 223 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF61. Catch locality Southern Hills, Tasmania, unknown depth. ID by AW. Otolith description Otolith small, tear-drop shaped. Dorsal margin approximately flat and irregular; ventral margin rounded and slightly irregular to serrate beneath rostrum; posterior margin angular becoming rounded and slightly irregular. Distal and proximal surfaces flat/convex. Sulcus groove shallow, heterosulcoid, opening ostial. Colliculum homomorph, present in ostium and cauda. Crista superior and inferior well developed. Rostrum elongate tapering and pointed. Antirostrum small and rounded (Smale et al. 1995). Excisura wide; notch shallow; angle wide. Dorsal area depression shallow around posterior cauda. Ventral area depression anterior to sulcus. Primordium lateral.

Distribution and ecology Central New South Wales to Great Australian Bight Western Australia, and Tasmania; also New Zealand (Last et al. 1983), southern Africa and south Atlantic (Gomon et al. 1994); pelagic 500–1800 m depth; reaches 300 mm in length (Last et al. 1983). Predator–prey information Known prey of westland petrel (Procellaria westlandica) (Freeman 1998).

Otolith of Phosichthys argenteus from a fish of 223 mm FL

37

SALMONIFORMES

Order: SALMONIFORMES Family: Sternoptychidae Species: Argyropelecus gigas Common name: Giant hatchetfish

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of unknown FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF60. Catch locality Southern Hills, Tasmania, unknown depth. ID by AW.

Morphometry FL = 100.283 OW 0.502 mm n = 11; Std Err Est = 0.798; R = 0.798; P<0.003 Otolith weigh range = 0.2–1.0 mg Fish length range = 39–101 mm FL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith very small, tall. Dorsal margin lobed and irregular; ventral margin keeled and entire and becoming irregular in larger otoliths (Smale et al. 1995); posterior margin straight and slightly irregular. Distal surface convex; proximal surface concave. Sulcus groove deep, heterosulcoid, opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph. Crista inferior well developed. Rostrum short and broad. Excisura small; notch absent. Dorsal area depression as trough along entire sulcus. Ventral area depression absent. Primordium lateral.

Distribution and ecology New South Wales to Victoria, and Tasmania; also south Atlantic, south-east of Cape of Good Hope (Smale et al. 1995); occurs in 400–900 m depth (Williams and Koslow 1997); reaches 110 mm in length (Last et al. 1983). Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Argyropelecus gigas from a fish of unknown length

38

SALMONIFORMES

Order: SALMONIFORMES Family: Platytroctidae Species: Persparsia kopua Common name: Spangled tubeshoulder Previous nomenclature: Bathytroctes kopua, Persparsia taaningi

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 122 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF66. Catch locality Southern Hills, Tasmania, unknown depth. ID by AW.

Morphometry FL = 105.214 OW 0.225 mm n = 11; Std Err Est = 0.036; R = 0.953; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 1.1–4.4 mg Fish length range = 107–146 mm FL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith very small, ovate. Dorsal margin entire becoming irregular (Smale et al. 1995); ventral margin irregular to dentate posteriorly; posterior margin straight and slightly irregular to sinuate. Distal surface slightly convex; proximal surface flat to slightly concave. Sulcus groove varies from deep to shallow, pseudoarchaesulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum homomorph; anterior colliculum indistinct. Crista superior and inferior developed anteriorly. Rostrum prominent and sharply rounded. Excisura wide; notch shallow; angle wide. Dorsal area depression small, oval above crista. Ventral area depression towards end of rostrum. Primordium lateral.

Distribution and ecology New South Wales to Tasmania; also New Zealand, eastern Atlantic and western Pacific from 30 to 50°S; midwater species in 650–1500 m depth, rising to 300 m depth at night (Williams and Koslow 1997); reaches 140 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Persparsia kopua from a fish of 122 mm FL

39

AULOPIFORMES

Order: AULOPIFORMES Family: Paraulopidae Species: Paraulopus nigripinnis Common name: Blacktip cucumberfish Previous nomenclature: Chlorophthalmus nigripinnis

Mass = 5.548 × 10 –6 FL 3.13 g n = 215; Std Err Est = 0.133; R = 0.946; P<0.001; Fish length range = 102–246 mm FL (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 165 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF31. Catch locality Bermagui, New South Wales, 120 m depth. ID by DMF.

Distribution and ecology Southern Australia from New South Wales to Cape Cuvier (Western Australia), and Tasmania; also New Zealand; occurs in 65–600 m depth; reaches 280 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith small/medium, elliptic. Dorsal margin rounded lobed and irregular; ventral margin rounded and entire. Distal surface flat; proximal surface convex (irregular formations noted ventrally). Sulcus groove shallow, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum not visible. Crista superior and inferior poorly developed. Rostrum broad and sharply rounded Excisura wide; notch absent. Dorsal area sculptured posteriorly with broad, shallow depression above crista anteriorly. Ventral area depression absent. Primordium central.

Predator–prey information Known prey of piked dogfish (Squalus megalops), gemfish (Rexea solandri), deepwater flathead (Neoplatycephalus conatus), yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacores) (Coleman and Mobley 1984), speckled stargazer (Kathetostoma canaster) (CMAR unpublished data) and New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsterii) (Lake 1997).

Morphometry FL = 164.514 OW 0.097 mm n = 9; Std Err Est = 0.02; R = 0.53; P<0.142 Otolith weight range = 34–50 mg (CMAR)

Otolith of Paraulopus nigripinnis from a fish of 165 mm FL

40

MYC TOPHIFORMES

Order: MYCTOPHIFORMES Family: Myctophidae Species: Diaphus danae Common name: Dana lanternfish

Morphometry SL = 10.145 OL1.353 mm n = 36; Std Err Est = 0.04; R = 0.989; Otolith length range = 1.5–5.9 mm (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 108 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference BG2. Catch locality Maria Island, Tasmania. Depth unknown. ID by BG.

Mass = 7.16 × 10 –6 SL3.184 g n = 36; Std Err Est = 0.097; R = 0.993; Fish length range = 41–113 mm SL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith small to medium, rounded-ovate to oval. Dorsal margin rounded, irregular with posterior papilla; ventral margin rounded and slightly irregular with several papillae. Sulcus groove shallow, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium larger than cauda. Colliculum heteromorph; anterior colliculum larger. Pseudo-colliculum longer than posterior colliculum, ridge-like. Collum absent. Crista superior fine, well defined, slightly developed over ostium to mid-cauda; crista inferior poorly developed along entire sulcus. Rostrum moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum short, broad and pointed. Excisura moderate; notch shallow; angle acute. Dorsal area depression shallow oval. Ventral area depression as a shallow groove. Primordium central.

Distribution and ecology Oceanic mesopelagic fish occurring from surface to 650 m depths over the continental shelf and slope (Williams et al. 2001) with noted vertical day/night migration (300–650 m day, 0–500 m night). Predator–prey information Mesopelagic lanternfish are abundant and form an important food source for commercial fish species and squid (Gomon et al. 1994). Undistinguished Myctophidae species are known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocpehalus pusillus doriferus) (Hume et al. 2004), New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsterii) (Lake 1997) and dolphins (pers comm. S. Gibbs, SA Museum).

Otolith of Diaphus danae from a fish of 108 mm SL

41

MYC TOPHIFORMES

Order: MYCTOPHIFORMES Family: Myctophidae Species: Diaphus hudsoni Common name: Hudson’s lanternfish

Morphometry SL = 18.485 OL0.863 mm n = 11; Std Err Est = 0.039; R = 0.79; Otolith length range = 4.1–4.8 mm (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 69 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference BG3. Catch locality Maria Island, Tasmania. Depth unknown. ID by BG.

Mass = 9.76 × 10 –4 SL2.035 g n = 11; Std Err Est = 0.093; R = 0.81; Fish length range = 62–75 mm SL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith small, rounded-ovate. Dorsal margin rounded to raised posteriorly, irregular; ventral margin rounded, serrate. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium and cauda approximately equal and oval. Colliculum heteromorph; anterior colliculum larger than posterior colliculum. Pseudo-colliculum present, ridge-like. Collum absent. Crista superior low ridge from ostium to mid-cauda, decreasing to absent at tip; crista inferior poorly developed along entire sulcus. Rostrum short and broad, sharply rounded. Antirostrum small and rounded/sharply rounded. Excisura moderate; notch shallow; angle acute to wide. Dorsal area depression shallow, large oval. Ventral area depression absent but shallow groove in mid area.

Distribution and ecology Circumglobal between subtropical convergence and ~50°S (Smale et al. 1995); deepwater, mainly below 250 m (Hulley 1981), but reported from 0 to 650 m depth (Williams and Koslow 1997). Predator–prey information Mesopelagic lanternfish are abundant and form an important food source for commercial fish species, squid, fur seals and dolphins (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith of Diaphus hudsoni from a fish of 69 mm SL

42

MYC TOPHIFORMES

Order: MYCTOPHIFORMES Family: Myctophidae Species: Diaphus metopoclampus Common name: Bluntnose lanternfish Previous nomenclature: Myctophum metopoclampus

Morphometry n = 1; Otolith length = 4.1 mm (CMAR) n = 1; Fish length = 73 mm SL (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 73 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference BG4. Catch locality Maria Island, Tasmania. Depth unknown. ID by BG.

Distribution and ecology Subtropical species; Mediterranean, north and south Atlantic and Indo-west Pacific; reaches 75 mm in length (Smale et al. 1995).

Otolith description Otolith small, rounded-ovate. Dorsal margin well rounded, slightly irregular; ventral margin rounded and serrate. Sulcus heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium larger than cauda. Colliculum heteromorph; anterior colliculum large. Pseudo-colliculum present, ridge-like along entire cauda. Colluam absent. Crista superior low ridge from ostium to cauda; crista inferior poorly developed along entire sulcus. Rostrum large and broad, sharply rounded. Antirostrum small and sharply rounded. Excisura moderate; notch moderate; angle acute. Dorsal area depression shallow oval. Ventral area depression absent, but shallow groove in mid area.

Predator–prey information Mesopelagic lanternfish are abundant and form an important food source for commercial fish species, squid, fur seals and dolphins (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith of Diaphus metopoclampus from a fish of 73 mm SL

43

MYC TOPHIFORMES

Order: MYCTOPHIFORMES Family: Myctophidae Species: Diaphus ostenfeldi Common name: Ostenfeld’s lanternfish

Morphometry n = 1; Otolith length = 4.1 mm (CMAR) n = 1; Fish length = 91 mm SL (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 91 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference BG5. Catch locality Maria Island, Tasmania. Depth unknown. ID by BG.

Distribution and ecology Predominantly cool water circumglobal convergence species, but found north of subtropic convergence in Tasman, Pacific, Indian and Atlantic sectors (McGinnis 1982); reaches 110 mm in length.

Otolith description Otolith small, rounded-obovate. Dorsal margin rounded, slightly emarginate posteriorly; ventral margin rounded and serrate. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostiocaudal. Ostium larger than cauda. Colliculum heteromorph; anterior colliculum large. Pseudo-colliculum present, ridge-like along length of posterior colliculum. Collum absent. Crista superior poorly developed over anterior ostium; low ridge from mid-ostium to postero-dorsal margin; crista inferior poorly developed along entire sulcus. Rostrum large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum small and pointed. Excisura moderate; notch shallow; angle acute. Dorsal area depression large, shallow. Ventral area depression absent, but shallow groove mid area.

Predator–prey information Mesopelagic lanternfish are abundant and form an important food source for commercial fish species, squid, fur seals and dolphins (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith of Diaphus ostenfeldi from a fish of 91 mm SL

44

MYC TOPHIFORMES

Order: MYCTOPHIFORMES Family: Myctophidae Species: Electrona rissoi Common name: Risso’s lanternfish

Morphometry SL = 15.564 OL1.024 mm n = 11; Std Err Est = 0.032; R = 0.957; Otolith length range = 2.8–4.15 mm (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 58 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference BG6. Catch locality Maria Island, Tasmania. Depth unknown. ID by BG.

Mass = 6.79 × 10 –5 SL2.761 g n = 11; Std Err Est = 0.049; R = 0.987; Fish length range = 45–60 mm SL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith small, discoid. Dorsal margin rounded or flattened; ventral margin rounded and crenate. Sulcus groove homosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum homomorph. Pseudo-colliculum present near posterior colliculum. Collum absent. Crista superior short, extending as low ridge from mid-ostium to mid-cauda, absent at tip; crista inferior poorly developed throughout, may have low ridge under cauda. Rostrum short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum short, broad and sharply rounded. Excisura moderate; notch shallow; angle acute. Dorsal area depression large, shallow oval. Ventral area depression as shallow groove mid area, deepening at posterior limit.

Distribution and ecology Widespread in Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans; also in Mediterrenean. A warm water myctophid species, the subtropical convergence marking the southern most limits of distribution; the only member of the genus found north of the Southern Ocean (McGinnis 1982); occurs in depths from surface to 650 m (Williams and Koslow 1997); reaches 82 mm in length (Smale et al. 1995). Predator–prey information Mesopelagic lanternfish are abundant and form an important food source for commercial fish species, squid, fur seals and dolphins (Gomon et al. 1994). Undistinguished Electrona species are known prey of New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsterii) (Fea et al. 1999).

Otolith of Electrona rissoi from a fish of 58 mm SL

45

MYC TOPHIFORMES

Order: MYCTOPHIFORMES Family: Myctophidae Species: Hygophum hanseni Common name: Hansen’s lanternfish

Morphometry SL = 16.877 OL1.367 mm n = 12; Std Err Est = 0.048; R = 0.98; Otolith length range = 1.2–2.1 mm (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 38 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference BG7. Catch locality Maria Island, Tasmania. Depth unknown. ID by BG.

Mass = 13.55 × 10 –6 SL3 g n = 12; Std Err Est = 0.074; R = 0.995; Fish length range = 22–45 mm SL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith very small, rounded-ovate. Dorsal margin rounded, irregular becoming lobed; ventral margin rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium larger than cauda. Colliculum heteromorph; posterior colliculum narrow. Pseudo-colliculum present and distinct, ridgelike and striated. Collum absent. Crista superior low ridge over ostium, poorly developed over cauda. Rostrum large, broad and rounded. Antirostrum small and rounded. Excisura moderate; notch shallow; angle wide. Dorsal area depression as groove along crista. Ventral area depression shallow oval covering most of area.

Distribution and ecology Oceanic midwater fish, mesopelagic over the continental shelf and slope (Williams et al. 2001) with noted vertical day/night migration (400–775 m depth day, 0–200 m depth night), cool water species present in subtropical convergence waters of Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans, but absent from nearshore waters of Chile (McGinnis 1982); reaches 67 mm in length (Smale et al. 1995). Predator–prey information Mesopelagic lanternfish are abundant and form an important food source for commercial fish species, squid, fur seals and dolphins (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith of Hygophum hanseni from a fish of 38 mm SL

46

MYC TOPHIFORMES

Order: MYCTOPHIFORMES Family: Myctophidae Species: Lampanyctodes hectoris Common name: Hector’s lanternfish

Mass = 9.0 × 10 –6 SL3.096 g n = 51; Std Err Est = 0.091; R = 0.991; Fish length range = 33–73 mm SL (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 73 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference BG8. Catch locality Maria Island, Tasmania. Depth unknown. ID by BG.

Distribution and ecology Cool water ‘pseudo-oceanic’ fish. Occurs in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Chile; associated with the transitional region of the subtropical convergence; common over shelf and upper slope (McGinnis 1982) throughout the water column; McGinnis (1982) reports a maximum length of 61 mm, but this was exceeded in the current guide (max. 73 mm SL).

Otolith description Otolith very small, rounded- to oval-ovate. Dorsal margin margins rounded and slightly irregular; ventral margin rounded and serrate. Sulcus groove shallow, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium larger than cauda. Colliculum heteromorph; anterior colliculum elongate, moderately broad; posterior colliculum short and oval; may be depressed. Pseudo-colliculum present and distinct, longer than posterior colliculum. Collum absent. Crista superior low ridge through to midcauda, poorly developed over posterior cauda; crista inferior poorly developed along entire sulcus. Rostrum short, very broad. Antirostrum small and sharply rounded. Excisura moderate; notch shallow; angle wide. Dorsal area depression shallow oval, covers most of area. Ventral area depression absent, but shallow groove near margin. Primordium central.

Predator–prey information Mesopelagic lanternfish are abundant and form an important food source for commercial fish species, squid, fur seals and dolphins (Gomon et al. 1994). Hector’s lanternfish is a particularly important food source for a range of slope fish, particularly threespine cardinalfish (Apogonops anomalus), common jack mackerel (Trachurus declivis), blue grenadier (Macruronus novaezelandiae), toothed whiptail (Lepidorhynchus denticulatus) (Blaber and Bulman 1987), warty squid (Moroteuthis ingens) (pers comm. G. Jackson, IASOS) and New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsterii) (Fea et al. 1999).

Morphometry SL = 18.708 OL1.492 mm n = 36; Std Err Est = 0.117; R = 0.833; Otolith length range = 1.5–2.4 mm (CMAR)

Otolith of Lampanyctodes hectoris from a fish of 73 mm SL

47

MYC TOPHIFORMES

Order: MYCTOPHOFORMES Family: Myctophidae Species: Lampanyctus australis Common name: Austral lanternfish

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 103 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF60. Catch locality Southern Hills, Tasmania, unknown depth. ID by AW.

Morphometry FL = 112.956 OW –0.036 mm n = 10; Std Err Est = 0.087; R = 0.097; P<0.79 Otolith weight range = 3.9–6.2 mg Fish length range = 97–122 mm FL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith very small, oval-obovate. All margins rounded and entire. Distal surface convex; proximal surface flat to slightly convex. Sulcus groove shallow, heteromorph; opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph; anterior colliculum extended. Crista superior and inferior poorly developed. Rostrum short, broad and rounded (may be slightly shorter than antirostrum (Smale et al. 1995)). Antirostrum short and sharply rounded. Excisura moderate; notch shallow; angle wide. Dorsal area depression absent. Ventral area depression shallow elongate oval. Primordium central.

Distribution and ecology Circumglobal convergence species with northern extension to 27°S in eastern boundary currents (McGinnis 1982); surface to 900 m depth (400–900 m depth day, 0–900 m depth night) (Williams and Koslow 1997); reaches 130 mm in length (Smale et al. 1995). Predator–prey information Mesopelagic lanternfish are abundant and form an important food source for commercial fish species, squid, fur seals and dolphins. Also reported to be prey item to westland petrel (Procellaria westlandica) (Freeman 1998).

Otolith of Lampanyctus australis from a fish of 103 mm FL

48

MYC TOPHIFORMES

Order: MYCTOPHIFORMES Family: Myctophidae Species: Symbolophorus barnardi Common name: Barnard’s lanternfish Previous nomenclature: Myctophum humboldti

Morphometry SL = 20.947 OL1.002 mm n = 9; Std Err Est = 0.047; R = 0.982; Otolith length range = 2.3–4.45 mm (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 85 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference BG9. Catch locality Maria Island, Tasmania. Depth unknown. ID by BG.

Mass = 1.12 × 10 –5 SL3.031 g n = 9; Std Err Est = 0.113; R = 0.989; Fish length range = 48–100 mm SL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith small, oval-ovate, becoming oblong-ovate with growth (Smale et al. 1995). Dorsal margin slightly rounded or raised and flattened, crenate or irregular; ventral margin rounded, crenate to irregular, becomes smoother with growth (Smale et al. 1995). Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium larger than cauda. Colliculum heteromorph; anterior colliculum elongate, oblong; posterior colliculum short, rectangular. Collum absent. Crista superior low ridge from ostium to cauda; crista inferior poorly developed along entire sulcus, may be low ridge under posterior ostium. Rostrum large and broad, sharply rounded. Antirostrum small and moderate, sharply rounded. Excisura moderate; notch shallow; angle acute. Dorsal area depression shallow oval. Ventral area depression absent.

Distribution and ecology Central New South Wales to southern Western Australia; also New Zealand and South Africa, southern Atlantic Ocean; subtropical warm water oceanic species in upper 750 m depth, with noted vertical day/ night migration, 300–900 m depth day, 0–400 m depth night (Williams and Koslow 1997); reaches 120 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information Mesopelagic lanternfish are abundant and form an important food source for commercial fish species, squid, fur seals and dolphins (Gomon et al. 1994). Undistinguished Symbolophorus species are known prey of New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsterii) (Fea et al. 1999).

Otolith of Symbolophorus barnardi from a fish of 85 mm SL

49

GADIFORMES

Order: GADIFORMES Family: Moridae Species: Notophycis marginata Common name: Forkbeard cod Previous nomenclature: Austrophycis marginatus, Notophycis marginata tasmaniensis, Physiculus marginatus

Morphometry SL = 11.034 OL1.372 mm n = 25; Std Err Est = 0.043; R = 0.99; Otolith length range = 4.2–8.1 mm (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 190 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference BG10. Catch locality Maria Island, Tasmania. Depth unknown. ID by BG.

Mass = 7.26 × 10 –6 SL3.039 g n = 25; Std Err Est = 0.105; R = 0.994; Fish length range = 80–190 mm SL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith medium, pyriform. Dorsal margin domed, rounded irregular; ventral margin flat. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening caudal, but may be ostio-caudal. Ostium larger than cauda. Colliculum heteromorph; anterior colliculum poorly developed, may come close to anterior margin; posterior colliculum narrow and high, widens at tip and extends past posterior margin. Collum absent. Crista superior poorly defined over ostium, well developed over cauda; crista inferior poorly developed under posterior ostium, developed under cauda. Rostrum and antirostrum absent. Excisura absent. Pseudo-rostrum and pseudo-antirostrum short and pointed. Pseudo-excisura wide; notch shallow; angle acute. Dorsal area depression small above central sulcus area. Ventral area depression absent.

Distribution and ecology Tasmania and New South Wales; also New Zealand and Patagonia; on the continental slope, commonly between 480 and 720 m depth; reaches 220 mm in length (Last et al. 1983). Predator–prey information None cited.

50

GADIFORMES

Otolith of Notophycis marginata from a fish of 190 mm SL

51

GADIFORMES

Order: GADIFORMES Family: Moridae Species: Pseudophycis bachus Common name: Red cod Previous nomenclature: Enchelyopus bachus, Physiculus bachus

Morphometry TL = 6.834 OW 0.781 mm n = 21; Std Err Est = 0.074; R = 0.927; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 107–229.8 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens. Specimen 1 of 356 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF19–20. Catch locality Lakes Entrance, Victoria, 200 m depth. ID by DMF. Specimen 2 of 285 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 21.7P6. Catch locality Derwent River, Tasmania. ID by RG.

TL = 6.33 OL1.62 mm n = 9; Std Err Est = 0.05; R = 0.97; Otolith length range = 9.7–13.7 mm (TMAG)

Otolith description Otolith large, fusiform/spindle-shaped, distinctive with sculptured relief. Dorsal margin lobed and irregular; ventral margin entire to irregular; posterior margin sharply rounded. Distal surface irregular (composed of crevices and raised lobes) but overall profile flat; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove shallow, heterosulcoid; opening ostio-caudal. Colliculum well defined, heteromorph. Crista superior and inferior well developed at cauda. Rostrum and antirostrum stout and sharply pointed. Excisura wide; notch deep and separated into two acute notches by development of a ridge extending into excisura. Pseudo-rostrum broad and bluntly rounded Dorsal area and ventral area depression absent. Primordium lateral.

Mass = 1.017 × 10 –7 TL3.838 g n = 20; Std Err Est = 0.178; R = 0.936; Fish length range = 248–415 mm TL (TMAG + CMAR) Distribution and ecology New South Wales to central South Australia, and Tasmania; also New Zealand (Cohen et al. 1990); shallow sandy areas through to 375 m depth (Gomon et al. 1994), but also reported as 50–550 m depth (Cohen et al. 1990); reaches 800 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information Known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocpehalus pusillus doriferus) (Gales and Pemberton 1994, Hume et al. 2004), New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsterii) (Fea et al. 1999), and little penguin (Eudyptula minor) (Montague and Cullen 1987, Gales and Pemberton 1990, Chiaradia et al. 2003).

52

GADIFORMES

p

d

Otolith of Pseudophycis bachus from a fish of 356 mm TL. Proximal (p) and distal (d) surfaces shown.

53

GADIFORMES

Order: GADIFORMES Family: Merlucciidae Species: Macruronus novaezelandiae Common names: Blue grenadier (blue hake, hoki, New Zealand whiptail) Previous nomenclature: Coryphaenoides novaezelandiae

Distribution and ecology Confined to southern Australia from Sydney (New South Wales) to southern Western Australia and Tasmania; also New Zealand. Found in bays and shallow coastal waters as juveniles, through to 200–700 m depths as adults; reaches 1100 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Forms large spawning aggregations on Tasmanian west coast in winter.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 990 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF22. Catch locality unknown. ID by DMF. Otolith description Otolith large, oval. Dorsal margin sinuate; ventral margin entire to irregular. Sulcus groove homosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum homomorph. Collum broad. Crista superior and inferior present, but not prominent. Rostrum short and broad. Antirostrum short and pointed. Excisura notch-like.Ventral area groove present.

Predator–prey information Known prey of giant squid (Architeuthis sp.), New Zealand sea lion (Phocactos hookerii) (Childerhouse et al. 2001), Australian fur seal (Arctocpehalus pusillus doriferus) (Hume et al. 2004), New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsterii) (Lake 1997), little penguin (Eudyptula minor) (Gales and Pemberton 1990) and westland petrel (Procellaria westlandica) (Freeman 1998). Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of the shy albatross, (Thalassarche cauta) (Hedd et al. 2001).

Morphometry (Note: Data includes juvenile specimens) TL = 32.87 OL 0.91 mm n = 27; R = 0.99; Fish length range 82–395 mm (TMAG) Mass = 2.3 × 10 –6 TL 3.08 g n = 13; R = 0.99; Fish length range = 100–260 mm TL (Lalas 1983)

Otolith of Macruronus novaezelandiae from a fish of 990 mm FL

54

GADIFORMES

Order: GADIFORMES Family: Macrouridae Species: Caelorinchus australis Common names: Southern whiptail (rugose whiptail) Previous nomenclature: Coelorinchus australis, Coelorinchus mortoni

Morphometry TL = 26.816 OW 0.543 mm n = 6; Std Err Est = 0.07; R = 0.977; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 61–220.7 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 475 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF17–18. Catch locality Lakes Entrance, Victoria, 200 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 51.316 TL 0.264 g n = 25; Std Err Est = 0.614; R = 0.264; P<0.202; Fish length range = 100–493 mm TL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith large, oval. Dorsal margin rounded to irregular; ventral margin rounded/entire with anterior end lobed; posterior margin rounded and irregular. Distal surface concave to irregular; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove shallow, approximately homosulcoid (ostium may be smaller); opening ostio-caudal. Colliculum homomorph, both well developed. Crista superior and inferior poorly developed. Rostrum broad and rounded. Excisura narrow; notch small; angle wide. Primordium central.

Distribution and ecology Southern New South Wales to eastern South Australia, and Tasmania (Gomon et al. 1994); in depths of 80–300 m; reaches 550 mm in length (Last et al. 1983). Predator–prey information Known prey of shy albatross (Thalassarche cauta), possibly scavenged from commercial trawlers (Hedd et al. 2001).

Otolith of Caelorinchus australis from a fish of 475 mm TL

55

GADIFORMES

Order: GADIFORMES Family: Macrouridae Species: Caelorinchus fasciatus Common names: Banded whiptail (banded rattail, striped/banded whiptail) Previous nomenclature: Coelorinchus fasciatus

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 170 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 21.13P23 (otolith provided by DSF, (BW23, 07/1987)). Catch locality unknown. ID by RG.

Distribution and ecology Circumglobal in the southern hemisphere 20°S–56°S, southern Africa, South America, New Zealand, southern Australia including Tasmania, in deep water; reaches 500 mm in length

Otolith description Otolith small, elliptical. Dorsal margin and posterior margin lobed; ventral margin entire. Sulcus groove homosulcoid; opening mesial to ostio-caudal. Colliculum homomorph. Collum absent. Cristae poorly developed along entire sulcus. Rostrum, antirostrum and excisura absent.

Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Caelorinchus fasciatus from a fish of 170 mm TL. (Note: Some debris is present on the otolith surface.)

56

GADIFORMES

Order: GADIFORMES Family: Macrouridae Species: Caelorinchus maurofasciatus Common names: Falseband whiptail (dark banded rattail) Previous nomenclature: Coelorinchus maurofasciatus

Morphometry (Note: Data includes juvenile and adult specimens.)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 311 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF14–15. Catch locality Darcey’s Patch, Tasmania. ID by DMF.

Mass = 11.435 × 10 –3 TL 1.589 g n = 156; Std Err Est = 0.763; R = 0.719; P<0.001; Fish length range = 41–430 mm TL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith medium to large, oblong. Dorsal margin crenate to irregular; ventral margin entire rounded; posterior margin and anterior margin rounded. Distal surface flat; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove moderate, approximately homosulcoid (ostium may be smaller); opening mesial. Colliculum homomorph. Crista superior and inferior poorly developed. Rostrum, antirostrum, and excisura absent. Dorsal area depression broad narrow. Ventral area depression absent.

Distribution and ecology Australia and New Zealand, inhabiting upper-slope areas; reaches 500 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Caelorinchus maurofasciatus from a fish of 311 mm TL

57

GADIFORMES

Order: GADIFORMES Family: Macrouridae Species: Lepidorhynchus denticulatus Common names: Toothed whiptail (javelin fish)

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of four specimens. Specimen 1 of 178 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF16. Catch locality Lakes Entrance, Victoria, 200 m depth. ID by DMF. Specimen 2 and 3 of 269 and 305 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference TW6 and TW44 (otoliths provided by DSF, 07/1987). Catch locality unknown. ID by DSF. Specimen 4 of 190 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference BG11. Catch locality Maria Island, Tasmania. Depth unknown. ID by BG.

Distribution and ecology Southern Australia from New South Wales to Great Australian Bight, and Tasmania; also New Zealand and Kermandec Islands (Last et al. 1983); 180–1000 m depth, most common in 270–450 m (Last et al. 1983), but also recorded from as shallow as 60 m depth (Gomon et al. 1994); reaches in 550 mm in length. Predator–prey information Known prey of blue grenadier (Macruronus novaezelandiae), gemfish (Rexea solandri), ling (Genypterus blacodes) (Coleman and Mobley 1984), speckled stargazer (Kathetostoma canaster) (CMAR unpublished data), Australian fur seal (Arctocpehalus pusillus doriferus) (Gales and Pemberton 1994) and westland petrel (Procellaria westlandica) (Freeman 1998).

Otolith description Otolith elongate, oval to oblong. Dorsal margin sinuate lobed and domed; ventral margin rounded and sinuate; posterior margin rounded and slightly crenate. Distal surface convex; proximal surface flat. Sulcus groove shallow, homosulcoid; opening ostiocaudal. Colliculum homomorph; both anterior and posterior colliculi well developed. Crista superior and inferior ridge-like and raised along entire sulcus. Rostrum very short. Antirostrum slightly more prominent than rostrum. Excisura absent. Dorsal area and ventral area depression absent.

Otolith of Lepidorhynchus denticulatus from a fish of 190 mm SL

58

GADIFORMES

Order: GADIFORMES Family: Macrouridae Species: Lucigadus nigromaculata Common names: Blackspot whiptail (black-spotted rattail) Previous nomenclature: Ventrifossa nigromaculata

Morphometry TL = 29.784 OL1.076 mm n = 20; Std Err Est = 0.07; R = 0.94 Otolith length range = 4.4–7.6 mm (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 210 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference BG12. Catch locality Maria Island, Tasmania. Depth unknown. ID by BG.

Mass = 1.59 × 10 –6 TL3.071 g n = 20; Std Err Est = 0.225; R = 0.942; Fish length range = 140–280 mm TL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith medium, tapered oval. Dorsal margin slightly rounded, entire to slightly sinuate; ventral margin entire to slightly sinuate. Sulcus groove homosulcoid, ostial, may appear mesial. Colliculum homomorph, low indented colliculi. Pseudo-colliculum present, nodular but indistinct. Collum absent. Crista superior developed over ostium and ridge-like over cauda; crista inferior prominent mid-sulcus. Rostrum moderate, broad and rounded. Antirostrum moderate and broadly rounded. Excisura present; notch shallow; angle acute.

Distribution and ecology Queensland to Western Australia, and Tasmania; also New Zealand, Chile and South Africa; widespread distribution in temperate waters in 230–1460 m depth, but generally on the slope in 550–800 m depth in Tasmanian waters; reaches 340 mm in length (Last et al. 1983, Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Lucigadus nigromaculata from a fish of 210 mm SL

59

OPHIDIIFORMES

Order: OPHIDIIFORMES Family: Ophidiidae Species: Genypterus blacodes Common name: Pink ling Previous nomenclature: Genypterus microstomus

Morphometry TL = 116.629 OW 0.33 mm n = 9; Std Err Est = 0.086; R = 0.731; P<0.025 Otolith weight range = 259–566 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 470 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF29–30. Catch locality Lakes Entrance, Victoria, 200 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 2.587 × 10 –6 TL 3.1 g n = 138; Std Err Est = 0.154; R = 0.981; P<0.001 Fish length range = 300–1060 mm TL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith oval/oblong. Dorsal margin rounded and crenate; ventral margin approximately straight and entire; posterior margin irregular. Distal surface concave; proximal surface slightly convex. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium four times longer than cauda. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum present but indistinct. Crista superior and inferior somewhat ridge-like but poorly developed. Rostrum short broad and rounded. Antirostrum small and sharply rounded. Excisura moderate; notch small; angle acute. Dorsal area and ventral area depression absent.

Distribution and ecology Central New South Wales to eastern Western Australia, and Tasmania; 20–1000 m depth; Tilzey (1994) suggested winter/spring movement into deeper waters possibly associated with spawning and schooling of sub-adults; juveniles common on the shelf (May and Maxwell 1986); reaches >2000 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information Known prey of Australian fur seals (Arctocpehalus pusillus doriferus), possibly scavenged around commercial fishing boats (Hume et al. 2004).

Otolith of Genypterus blacodes from a fish of 470 mm TL

60

AT H ER I N I F O R M E S

Order: ATHERINIFORMES Family: Hemiramphidae Species: Hyporhamphus melanochir Common name: Southern garfish

Mass = 3.27 × 10 –8SL3.79 g n = 42; Std Err Est = 0.084; R = 1.00; Fish length range = 92–295 mm SL (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens of 115-275 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference 23.3P2, P25 and P9, respectively. Catch locality southern Tasmania. ID by RG.

Distribution and ecology Southern New South Wales to Perth (Western Australia); shallow inshore waters in association with Zostera seagrass beds; reaches >510 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith size variable, oval/ovate, anterior area curving dorsally. Dorsal margin entire anteriorly, but sinuate at the posterior end; ventral margin weakly lobed posteriorly. Sulcus groove homosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium and cauda distinguishable, cauda with marked postero-ventral angle. Colliculum heteromorph, but may appear continuous, rough in appearance. Crista superior and crista inferior indistinct. Rostrum small and rounded. Antirostrum and excisura absent. Dorsal area depression small above mid cauda area. Ventral area depression absent.

Predator–prey information Known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Gales and Pemberton 1994), little penguin (Eudyptula minor) (Montague and Cullen 1987, Klomp and Wooller 1988, Gales and Pemberton 1990), shorttailed shearwaters (Puffinus tenuirostris) (Montague et al. 1984) and crested tern (Sterna bergii) (Higgins and Davies 1996). Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) (Marchant and Higgins 1990), white-fronted tern (Sterna striata), Caspian tern (Sterna caspia) and fairy tern (Sterna nereis) (Higgins and Davies 1996).

Morphometry SL = 68.70 OL0.82 mm n = 42; Std Err Est = 0.043; R = 0.99; Otolith length range = 1.4–5.95 mm (TMAG)

Otolith of Hyporhamphus melanochir from a fish of 180 mm SL

61

AT H ER I N I F O R M E S

Order: ATHERINIFORMES Family: Atherinidae Species: Atherinason hepsetoides Common names: Smallscale hardyhead (Dannevig’s hardyhead) Previous nomenclature: Atherina hepsetoides, Atherina dannevigi, Atherinason dannevigi

Mass = 4.45 × 10 –6 SL 3.14 g n = 12; Std Err Est = 0.0695; R = 0.99; Fish length range = 56–97 mm SL (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens of 35–90 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference 23.6P8, P9 and P23. Catch locality Trial Bay, southern Tasmania. ID by RG / RW.

Distribution and ecology Southern Australia from Sydney (New South Wales) to Spencer Gulf (South Australia), but predominantly Victoria and Tasmania; sheltered bays and deep estuaries to 30 m depth; previously reported to reach 90 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994), although this was exceeded in the current guide (max. 97 mm SL).

Otolith description Otolith very small, ovate. Dorsal margin and ventral margin entire to sinuate; anterior margin pointed and entire, varying to lobed in larger otoliths. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Cauda larger than ostium. Colliculum distinct and heteromorph. Collum present at anterior end of sulcus. Crista superior and crista inferior well defined and constricted at collum. Rostrum well developed in larger otoliths and rounded. Antirostrum rounded and bulbous when present. Excisura shallow. Dorsal area depression oval and deep above cauda. Ventral area raised and groove present .

Predator–prey information Known prey of crested tern (Sterna bergii) (Harris and Last 1982). Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of little penguin (Eudyptula minor) (Gales and Pemberton 1990), short-tailed shearwater (Puffinus tenuirostris) (Montague et al. 1984), blackfaced shag (Leucocarbo fuscescens), little black cormorant (Phalacrocorax sulcirostris) and great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) (Marchant and Higgins 1990).

Morphometry SL = 21.12 OL1.21 mm n = 23; Std Err Est = 0.0614; R = 0.99; Otolith length range = 1.5–3.5 mm (TMAG)

Otolith of Atherinason hepsetoides from a fish of 90 mm SL

62

AT H ER I N I F O R M E S

Order: ATHERINIFORMES Family: Atherinidae Species: Atherinosoma microstoma Common names: Smallmouth hardyhead (greyback) Previous nomenclature: Atherina microstoma, Atherinasoma vorax, Taeniomembras endorae, Taeniomembras microstoma

Morphometry TL = 4.473 OL0.997 mm n = 37; Std Err Est = 0.030; R = 0.965; P<0.001 Otolith length range = 1.31–3.6 mm (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of five specimens of 57–102 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 23.8P32-35 and P40. Catch locality Dru Point, Margate, southern Tasmania. ID by RG / RW.

Mass = 2.506 × 10 –6 TL 3.2 g n = 37; Std Err Est = 0.111; R = 0.992; P<0.001 Fish length range = 38–105 mm TL (TMAG)

Otolith description Otolith ovate. Dorsal margin lobed; ventral margin entire; posterior margin lobed. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostio-caudal. Cauda twice as large as ostium. Colliculum well defined and heteromorph. Collum poorly defined and close to ostium. Crista superior and crista inferior ridge-like; crista inferior extends along rostrum. Rostrum prominent, broad and sharply pointed. Antirostrum well developed. Excisura deep; angle acute. Dorsal area depression deep with radial ridges. Ventral area depression shallow with two dimples.

Distribution and ecology Southern New South Wales to Eyre Peninsula (South Australia) and Tasmania; common in shallow waters of bays and estuaries; previously reported to reach 100 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994), although this was exceeded in the current guide (max. 105 mm TL). Predator–prey information Known prey of great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) (Marchant and Higgins 1990), crested tern (Sterna bergii) (Harris and Last 1982) and little tern (Sterna albifrons) (Higgins and Davies 1996).

Otolith of Atherinosoma microstoma from a fish of 85 mm TL

63

AT H ER I N I F O R M E S

Order: ATHERINIFORMES Family: Atherinidae Species: Kestratherina brevirostris Common names: Shortsnout hardyhead (short-headed hardyhead) Previous nomenclature: Atherinason sp. in Last et al. 1983

Morphometry TL = 4.768 OL0.912 mm n = 26; Std Err Est = 0.054; R = 0.900; P<0.001 Otolith length range = 1.1–3.0 mm (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens of 51–90 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 23.7P6, P23 and P32. Catch locality Dru Point, Margate, southern Tasmania. ID by RG/RW.

Mass = 4.265 × 10 –6 TL 3.036 g n = 26; Std Err Est = 0.094; R = 0.994; P<0.001; Fish length range = 29–104 mm TL (TMAG)

Otolith description Otolith very small, ovate. Dorsal margin lobed; ventral margin entire to sinuate; posterior margin entire to gently lobed. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostio-caudal. Ostium twice as large as cauda. Colliculum deep and heteromorph. Collum narrow and abutting on ostium. Crista superior and crista inferior distinct and raised. Rostrum short and rounded. Antirostrum absent. Excisura varies from wide to notch-like. Dorsal area depression shallow and narrow above length of cauda. Ventral area covered by circuli-like ridges and ventral groove present.

Distribution and ecology Western Port (Victoria), Cowell (South Australia) and patchy distribution in Tasmania; sheltered marine habitats; reaches 100 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Kestratherina brevirostris from a fish of 88 mm TL

64

AT H ER I N I F O R M E S

Order: ATHERINIFORMES Family: Atherinidae Species: Kestratherina esox Common name: Pikehead hardyhead Previous nomenclature: Atherinason esox, Atherinichthys esox, Atherinosoma esox, Craterocephalus esox, Stenatherina esox

Morphometry TL = 4.468 OL1.115 mm n = 32; Std Err Est = 0.024; R = 0.988; P<0.001 Otolith length range = 1.33–4.3 mm (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of four specimens of 62–135 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 23.5P46, P53, P62 and P76. Catch locality Margate, southern Tasmania. ID by RG/RW.

Mass = 3.798 × 10 –6 TL 3.065 g n = 32; Std Err Est = 0.017; R = 0.996; P<0.001; Fish length range = 43–155 mm TL (TMAG)

Otolith description Otolith very small, oval to ovate. Dorsal margin lobed; ventral margin sinuate; posterior margin notched. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium larger than cauda. Colliculum distinct and heteromorph. Crista superior and crista inferior well developed and prominent along central area of sulcus. Rostrum robust and rounded. Antirostrum rounded, when present. Excisura shallow or absent. Dorsal area depression elongate above length of cauda. Ventral area depression absent, but groove present.

Distribution and ecology Tasmania, Victoria and South Australia; occurs in seagrasses in shallow sheltered bays; reaches 150 mm in length (Edgar 1997), although this was exceeded in the current guide (max. 152 mm TL). Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Kestratherina esox from a fish of 118 mm TL

65

AT H ER I N I F O R M E S

Order: ATHERINIFORMES Family: Atherinidae Species: Leptatherina presbyteroides Common names: Silverfish (prettyfish, tamar hardyhead) Previous nomenclature: Atherina presbyteroides, Atherinosoma presbyteroides, Taeniomembras edelensis, Taeniomembras lincolnensis, Taeniomembras tamarenisi

Morphometry TL = 29.30 OL1.02 mm n = 102; Std Err Est = 0.062; R = 0.99 Otolith length range = 0.8–3.1 mm (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens of 42–100 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 23.9P8-9 and P23. Catch locality Margate, southern Tasmania. ID by RG/RW.

Mass = –2.77 + (6.97 × 10 –2TL) g n = 66; Std Err Est = 0.44; R = 0.94; Fish length range = 30–101 mm TL (TMAG)

Otolith description Otolith very small, ovate. Dorsal margin slightly lobed; ventral margin entire to sinuate; posterior margin rounded and lobed to sinuate. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostio-caudal. Cauda larger than ostium. Colliculum indistinct. Collum indistinct. Crista superior extends onto rostrum; crista inferior distinct and ridge-like. Rostrum broad, short and pointed. Antirostrum varied and may be absent, rounded or notched. Excisura wide to absent. Dorsal area usually indistinct, but when present irregular and shallow with narrow depression above central crista region. Ventral area depression absent; area slightly raised, rounded.

Distribution and ecology Southern New South Wales to Houtman Abrolhos (Western Australia), and Tasmania; sheltered sand and seagrass in 0–5 m depth; reaches 110 mm in length (Edgar 1997). Predator–prey information Known prey of crested tern (Sterna bergii) (Harris and Last 1982) and little tern (Sterna albifrons) (Higgins and Davies 1996).

Otolith of Leptatherina presbyteroides from a fish of 92 mm TL. (Note: Some debris is present on the otolith surface.)

66

BERYCIFORMES

Order: BERYCIFORMES Family: Trachichthyidae Species: Hoplostethus intermedius Common names: Blacktip sawbelly (New Zealand sawbelly, silver roughy)

Morphometry SL = 9.115 OL1.144 mm n = 35; Std Err Est = 0.05; R = 0.969 Otolith length range = 4.8–9.7 mm (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 110 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference BG13. Catch locality Maria Island, Tasmania. Depth unknown. ID by BG.

Mass = 5.57 × 10 –5 SL2.884 g n = 36; Std Err Est = 0.134; R = 0.975; Fish length range = 50–120 mm SL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith large, discoid to rhomboidal. Dorsal margin lobed to dentate; ventral margin rounded and entire with two papillae. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium larger than cauda. Colliculum heteromorph; anterior colliculum low; posterior colliculum narrower, elongate, lying ventrally. Collum absent. Crista superior well developed over ostium, poorly developed over cauda; crista inferior poorly developed along sulcus. Rostrum short, broad and pointed. Antirostrum small and pointed. Excisura narrow; notch shallow; angle acute.

Distribution and ecology Southern New South Wales to Great Australian Bight, and Tasmania; also New Zealand; common on continental slope between 200–600 m depth; reaches 250 mm in length. In the past frequently misidentified as H. mediterraneus (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of shy albatross (Thalassarche cauta), possibly scavenged from commercial fishing boats (Hedd et al. 2001).

Otolith of Hoplostethus intermedius from a fish of 110 mm SL

67

BERYCIFORMES

Order: BERYCIFORMES Family: Berycidae Species: Beryx decadactylus Common names: Imperador (red bream, long-finned beryx)

Morphometry SL = 12.416 OL1.175 mm n = 11; Std Err Est = 0.059; R = 0.903 Otolith length range = 11.9–14.9 mm (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 270 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference BG14. Catch locality Maria Island, Tasmania. Depth unknown. ID by BG.

Mass = 4.13 × 10 –5 SL2.979 g n = 10; Std Err Est = 0.231; R = 0.865; Fish length range = 270–300 mm SL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith large, triangular with keeled ventral margin. Dorsal margin flattened, lobed posteriorly; ventral margin keeled and irregular to crenate. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial, but may be ostio-caudal. Ostium larger than cauda. Colliculum heteromorph; anterior colliculum distinct; posterior colliculum indistinct. Collum absent. Crista superior well defined and ridge-like, absent at tip; crista inferior developed under ostium, poorly developed under cauda. Rostrum broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum small and sharply rounded. Excisura moderate; notch shallow; angle wide. Pseudo-rostrum moderate, broad and rounded; pseudo-antirostrum broad, rounded.

Distribution and ecology Southern Australia from New South Wales to Victoria, and Tasmania; also New Zealand, Japan, Hawaii and Atlantic ocean; juveniles pelagic, adults demersal on continental slope in 300–500 m depth; reaches 550 mm in length and 5 kg in weight (Last et al. 1983, May and Maxwell 1986, Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of shy albatross (Thalassarche cauta), possibly scavenged from commercial fishing boats (Hedd et al. 2001).

Otolith of Beryx decadactylus from a fish of 270 mm SL

68

BERYCIFORMES

Order: BERYCIFORMES Family: Berycidae Species: Beryx splendens Common name: Alfonsino

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 191 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 25.10P2 (otolith provided by DSF, 07/1987). Catch locality unknown. ID by DSF.

Distribution and ecology South-east coast of Australia; also New Zealand, southern Japan and Atlantic Ocean; 450–680 m depth; reaches 400 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith large and distinctive, fusiform. Dorsal margin entire to slightly lobed; ventral margin distinctly crenate to serrate on the anterior and medial segments and entire on the posterior-ventral segment. Sulcus groove wide and heterosulcoid; opening ostio-caudal. Cauda slightly larger than ostium. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum absent. Crista superior and crista inferior ridge-like and curved. Rostrum short and blunt. Antirostrum rounded. Excisura moderate; angle wide. Ventral area slightly grooved.

Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Beryx splendens from a fish of 191 mm TL

69

BERYCIFORMES

Order: BERYCIFORMES Family: Berycidae Species: Centroberyx affinis Common names: Redfish (nannygai) Previous nomenclature: Beryx affinis

Distribution and ecology Central New South Wales to western Bass Strait off Victoria and Tasmania; also New Zealand; juveniles enter estuaries and are found in caves and under ledges (Gomon et al. 1994); undertake vertical migration at dawn and dusk to form dense feeding schools close to the seabed, but disperse throughout the water column at night; to 150 m depth; reaches 400 mm in length (May and Maxwell 1986).

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of unknown FL. Otolith catalogue reference SD1–2. Catch locality Disaster Bay, Victoria, 120 m depth. ID by SD. Otolith description Otolith medium, circular/rhomboidal. Dorsal margin irregular, ventral margin rounded and sinuate; posterior margin rounded sinuate. Distal and proximal surfaces convex (distinct raised lobes may occur on distal surface). Sulcus groove shallow, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph. Crista superior well developed to ridge-like; crista inferior well developed. Rostrum broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum small and sharply rounded to pointed. Excisura wide; notch shallow; angle acute. Dorsal area depression shallow, extending from antirostrum to mid-cauda. Ventral area depression absent. Primordium central.

Predator–prey information Known prey of spotted swellshark (Cephalloscylium laticeps), angelshark (Squatina australis), barracouta (Thyrsites atun), southern fiddler ray (Trigonorrhina fasciata) and John dory (Zeus faber) (CMAR unpublished data). Undistinguished species of this genus are known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Hume et al. 2004).

Morphometry (Note: Data includes juvenile and adult specimens.) FL = 101.165 OW 0.506 mm n = 20; Std Err Est = 0.1; R = 0.981; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 62–967 mg (CMAR) Mass = 6.958 × 10 –5 FL 2.817 g n = 492; Std Err Est = 0.194; R = 0.978; P<0.001; Fish length range = 81–325 mm FL (CMAR)

70

BERYCIFORMES

p

d

Otolith of Centroberyx affinis from a fish of unknown FL. Proximal (p) and distal (d) surfaces shown. (Note the raised lobes on distal surface.)

71

BERYCIFORMES

Order: BERYCIFORMES Family: Berycidae Species: Centroberyx gerrardi Common names: Bight redfish (golden snapper, redfish nannygai) Previous nomenclature: Beryx gerrardi, Trachichthodes gerrardi

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 454 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF41. Catch locality unknown. ID by DMF.

Distribution and ecology Confined to Australia from Port Philip Bay (Victoria) to southwest Western Australia; rocky reefs to 30 m depth, within caves and beneath ledges; reaches 460 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith small/medium, rhomboidal. Dorsal margin irregular crenate; ventral margin rounded/angular; posterior margin straight and entire. Distal and proximal surfaces convex (distinct raised lobes may occur on distal surface). Sulcus groove medium, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph. Crista superior well developed; crista inferior poorly developed. Rostrum broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum small and pointed. Excisura narrow; notch shallow; angle acute.

Predator–prey information None cited.

72

BERYCIFORMES

p

d

Otolith of Centroberyx gerrardi from a fish of 454 mm TL. Proximal (p) and distal (d) surfaces shown. (Note the raised lobe on distal surface.)

73

ZEIFORMES

Order: ZEIFORMES Family: Cyttidae Species: Cyttus australis Common names: Silver dory (bastard dory, red dory, sun dory)

Morphometry TL = 83.679 OW 0.709 mm n = 12; Std Err Est = 0.075; R = 0.966; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 2.3–8.0 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 145 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF40. Catch locality Bermagui, New South Wales, 80 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 1.332 × 10 –4 TL 2.586 g n = 172; Std Err Est = 0.162; R = 0.982; P<0.001; Fish length range = 97–380 mm TL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith hour-glass shaped. Dorsal margin lobed; ventral margin lobed to dentate on medial section; posterior margin and anterior margin entire. Distal and proximal surfaces flat to uneven. Sulcus groove deep, homosulcoid; opening ostio-caudal. Colliculum homomorph. Collum broad and bridge-like. Crista superior indistinct; crista inferior distinctive especially along mid-region of sulcus. Rostrum and pseudorostrum broad with sharply rounded end. Antirostrum and pseudo-antirostrum broad and bluntly rounded. Excisura usually deeper and with a more acute angle than pseudo-excisura. Dorsal area depression fanshaped, originating above collum. Ventral area depression absent; ill defined groove present.

Distribution and ecology New South Wales to southern Western Australia, and Tasmania (Last et al. 1983); occurs near the seabed in 10–350 m depth (May and Maxwell 1986); reaches 500 mm+ in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information Known prey of the Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Gales and Pemberton 1994, Hume et al. 2004).

Otolith of Cyttus australis from a fish of 145 mm TL

74

ZEIFORMES

Order: ZEIFORMES Family: Cyttidae Species: Cyttus novaezelandiae Common name: New Zealand dory Previous nomenclature: Zeus novaezelandiae

Morphometry TL = 63.815 OW 0.623 mm n = 10; Std Err Est = 0.111; R = 0.588; P<0.074 Otolith weight range = 3.8–6.0 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 145 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF1. Catch locality Lakes Entrance, Victoria, 200 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 2.680 × 10 –5 TL 2.917 g n = 40; Std Err Est = 0.133; R = 0.957; P<0.001; Fish length range = 105–210 mm TL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith very small, hour-glass shaped. Dorsal margin lobed to irregular; ventral margin rounded and irregular to sinuate. Distal and proximal surfaces flat to uneven. Sulcus groove deep, homosulcoid; opening ostio-caudal. Colliculum homomorph. Collum broad and bridge-like. Crista inferior poorly developed. Rostrum and pseudo-rostrum large and rounded. Excisura wide; notch deep; angle acute. Dorsal area and ventral area depressions broad and shallow.

Distribution and ecology Eastern Australia from New South Wales to South Australia, and Tasmania; 17–445 m depth (Gomon et al. 1994); reaches 400 mm in length (May and Maxwell 1986). Predator–prey information Known prey of gemfish (Rexea solandri) and southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii) (Coleman and Mobley 1984).

Otolith of Cyttus novaezelandiae from a fish of 145 mm TL

75

ZEIFORMES

Order: ZEIFORMES Family: Cyttidae Species: Cyttus traversi Common names: King dory (horsehead, lookdown dory, McCulloch’s dory) Previous nomenclature: Cyttoidops mccullochi, Cyttus mccullochi

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 174 and 292 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 26.3P1 and P2. Catch locality unknown (otolith provided by DSF (KD137 and 143). ID by DSF.

Distribution and ecology Cape Hawke (New South Wales) to north of Geraldton (Western Australia), and Tasmania; also off New Zealand and South Africa; demersal on the upper and mid slope, 200–1000 m depth (Daley et al. 1997); reaches 650 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith small, hour-glass shaped. Dorsal margin entire to lobed; ventral margin strongly lobed. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostio-caudal. Colliculum homomorph, two colliculi almost equal. Collum broad and bridge-like. Crista superior present; crista inferior absent. Rostrum and pseudo-rostrum knob-like as the result of a notch-like excisura and pseudo-excisura. Antirostrum and pseudo-antirostrum poorly defined.

Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Cyttus traversi from a fish of 292 mm TL

76

ZEIFORMES

Order: ZEIFORMES Family: Zeidae Species: Zenopsis nebulosus Common name: Mirror dory Previous nomenclature: Zeus nebulosus

Morphometry TL = 311.375 OW 0.207 mm n = 9; Std Err Est = 0.113; R = 0.397; P<0.29 Otolith weight range = 0.7–1.3 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens. Specimen 1 of 256 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF1. Catch locality Gabo Island, Victoria, 200 m depth. ID by DMF. Specimen 2 of 435 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 26.4P2. Catch locality unknown. ID by DSF.

Mass = 2.235 × 10 –6 TL 3.308 g n = 63; Std Err Est = 0.113; R = 0.991; P<0.001; Fish length range = 212–595 mm TL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith small, trilobate. Dorsal margin rounded and entire; ventral margin notched to form two unequal lobes; posterior margin notched and entire with lobe of colliculum protruding into notch. Distal surface flat; proximal surface uneven. Sulcus groove indistinct, pseudo-archaesulcoid; opening ostio-caudal. Colliculum homomorph and knob-like (Smale et al. 1995). Cristae absent. Rostrum narrow and sharply rounded; pseudo-rostrum broad and sharply rounded to blunt. Excisura and pseudo-excisura wide; notch shallow; angle wide. Dorsal area and ventral area depressions absent.

Distribution and ecology Fraser Is. (Queensland) to Western Australia (Tuma 1994), and Tasmania (Last et al. 1983); widespread in New Zealand; also Japan, Korea, Hawaii, California and Chile (Gomon et al. 1994); demersal on the shelf and slope in depths of <800 m (Kailola et al. 1993); reaches 700 mm in length. Predator–prey information Undistinguished species of this Genus are known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Hume et al. 2004).

Otolith of Zenopsis nebulosus from a fish of 256 mm TL

77

ZEIFORMES

Order: ZEIFORMES Family: Zeidae Species: Zeus faber Common name: John dory Previous nomenclature: Zeus japonicus, Zeus pungio

Morphometry TL = 254.677 OW 0.437 mm n = 22; Std Err Est = 0.117; R = 0.94; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 0.6–4.4 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens of 199, 235 and 362 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF65–66. Catch locality Bermagui, New South Wales, 80 m depth; Disaster Bay and Point Hicks, Victoria, 100 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 10172 × 10 –5 TL 3.06 g n = 234; Std Err Est = 0.153; R = 0.985; P<0.001; Fish length range = 104–505 mm TL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith very small, trilobate. Dorsal margin raised and lobed; ventral margin notched to form two narrow lobes and entire; posterior margin notched and entire with colliculum lobe protruding. Distal and proximal surface uneven. Sulcus groove indistinct, pseudoarchaesulcoid; opening ostio-caudal. Colliculum heteromorph; anterior colliculum flared and rounded; posterior colliculum narrow. Collum absent. Cristae absent. Rostrum and pseudo-rostrum large and bluntly rounded. Excisura and pseudo-excisura wide; notch shallow; angle wide. Dorsal area and ventral area depressions absent.

Distribution and ecology Southern Queensland to Western Australia, and Tasmania (May and Maxwell 1986); also Mediterranean and eastern Atlantic Ocean from Norway to South Africa (Smale et al. 1995), western Indian Ocean, New Zealand, South China Sea and Japan (Gomon et al. 1994); 5–400 m depth (Kuiter 1993); reaches 750 mm in length (Hutch and Swain 1986). Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Zeus faber from a fish of 199 mm TL

78

ZEIFORMES

Order: ZEIFORMES Family: Oreosomtidae Species: Allocyttus verrucosus Common names: Warty oreodory (warty dory, warty oreo) Previous nomenclature: Cyttosoma verrucosum

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 240 and 272 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 26.6P14 and P39 (otoliths provided by DSF (WD14: PE S2 and CRI SH2)). Catch locality unknown. ID by DSF.

Distribution and ecology Coffs Harbour (New South Wales) to Onslow (Western Australia) and Tasmania and near-by seamounts; 340 to 1630 m depth although typically 1000–1200 m (Daley et al. 1997); reaches 400 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith small, hour-glass shaped. Dorsal margin lobed; ventral margin slightly dentate; posterior margin entire. Sulcus groove pseudo-archaesulcoid; opening ostio-caudal. Colliculum heteromorph, becoming homomorph. Crista superior and crista inferior distinct in larger otoliths, but less-developed in smaller otoliths. Rostrum and pseudo-rostrum short and pointed. Antirostrum rounded. Pseudo-antirostrum absent. Excisura deep; angle acute. Pseudo-excisura shallow and notch-like with wide angle. Dorsal area and ventral area depressions absent, but mid-ventral groove present and crenulated.

Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Allocyttus verrucosus from a fish of 240 mm TL

79

ZEIFORMES

Order: ZEIFORMES Family: Oreosomatidae Species: Neocyttus rhomboidalis Common names: Spikey oreodory (spiky dory, spiky oreo)

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens. Specimen 1 of 330 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference BG15. Catch locality Maria Island, Tasmania. Depth unknown. ID by BG. Specimen 2 and 3 of 276 and 296 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 26.7P11 and P28 (otolith provided by DSF (SD28 and SD11)). Catch locality unknown. ID by DSF.

shape and definition as rostrum and antirostrum, respectively. Excisura and pseudo-excisura deep; angle acute. Ventral area groove present, which extends and increases in depth into the excisura and pseudo-excisura. Morphometry SL 330 mm = fish weight 1220 g (CMAR) Distribution and ecology Cape Hawke (New South Wales) to Shark Bay (Western Australia), and Tasmania and nearby seamounts; also New Zealand and southern Africa; 200–1240 m depth, but typically 450-800 m (Daley et al. 1997); reaches 300 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith hour-glass shaped. Dorsal margin lobed; ventral margin dentate. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostio-caudal. Colliculum homomorph. Crista superior prominent and bulbous above ostium and cauda; crista inferior absent. Rostrum large, broad and rounded, similar size to antirostrum. Pseudorostrum and pseudo-antirostrum of similar size,

Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Neocyttus rhomboidalis from a fish of 330 mm SL

80

S YNG N AT H I F O R M E S

Order: SYNGNATHIFORMES Family: Macrorhamphosidae Species: Macrorhamphosus scolopax Common name: Common bellowsfish Previous nomenclature: Balistes scolopax, Macrorhamphosus elevatus, Macrorhamphosus gallinago, Macrorhamphosus lancifer, Macrorhamphosus robustus, Macrorhamphosus velitaris

Morphometry TL = 149.008 OW 0.038 mm n = 15; Std Err Est = 0.071; R = 0.188; P<0.538 Otolith weight range = 0.4–1.1 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 155 mm TL Otolith catalogue reference DMF1. Catch locality Point Hicks, Victoria, 120 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 4.497 × 10 –6 TL 3.148 g n = 246; Std Err Est = 0.114; R = 0.947; P<0.001; Fish length range = 85–155 mm TL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith very small, triangular/hour-glass shaped. Dorsal margin domed, rounded and entire; ventral margin notched and irregular. Distal surface flat; proximal surface irregular. Sulcus groove deep, heterosulcoid; opening ostio-caudal. Colliculum heteromorph; single raised anterior colliculum. Collum absent. Crista superior well developed; crista inferior very well developed. Rostrum large, broad and rounded (Smale et al. 1995). Excisura moderate; notch shallow; angle wide. Dorsal area depression above crista. Ventral area depression absent.

Distribution and ecology Southern Queensland to Western Australia, and Tasmania (Last et al. 1983); most oceans in temperate latitudes (Gomon et al. 1994); occurs near the sea-bed in 25–600 m depth; reaches 180 mm in length. Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Macrorhamphosus scolopax from a fish of 155 mm TL

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Order: SCORPAENIFORMES Family: Neosebastidae Species: Neosebastes scorpaenoides Common names: Common gurnard perch (smooth/ spotty gurnard perch)

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 227 and 243 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 28.4P1-2. Catch locality Storm Bay, Tasmania. ID by RG.

Distribution and ecology Southern New South Wales to eastern Great Australian Bight, and Tasmania; shallow depth with hard bottom down to 140 m depth; reaches 400 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith large, ovate. Dorsal margin lobed; ventral margin dentate grading to lobed along postero-ventral margin, which may appear notched; posterior margin bulbous. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Cauda longer and deeper than ostium. Cauda with postero-ventral angle, which may extend via a groove into ventral margin indentation. Colliculum heteromorph; anterior colliculum more prominent than posterior colliculum. Crista superior and crista inferior ridge-like extending along entire sulcus. Rostrum short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum absent. Excisura present;angle wide. Dorsal area depression centrally above crista, area noduliferous. Ventral area depression absent.

Predator–prey information Known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Gales and Pemberton 1994, Hume et al. 2004).

Otolith of Neosebastes scorpaenoides from a fish of 227 mm TL

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Order: SCORPAENIFORMES Family: Neosebastidae Species: Neosebastes thetidis Common names: Thetis fish (rough gurnard perch) Previous nomenclature: Sebastes thetidis

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 47 and 72 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 28.5P46 and P47. Catch locality southwestern Bass Strait, off Stanley, Tasmania. ID by RG.

Distribution and ecology Southern Australia from central New South Wales to central Great Australian Bight; 20–240 m depth, but usually below 100 m; reaches 350 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith small, fusiform. Dorsal margin entire to sinuate; ventral margin entire; posterior margin entire to sinuate and sharply rounded. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium twice as large as cauda, which may be indistinct. Colliculum heteromorph. Crista superior and crista inferior indistinct and rounded, present along entire sulcus. Rostrum broad and rounded. Antirostrum short and rounded when present. Excisura shallow; angle moderate to wide. Dorsal area and ventral area lack relief except for small dimples in ventral area.

Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Neosebastes thetidis from a fish of 47 mm TL

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Order: SCORPAENIFORMES Family: Sebastidae Species: Helicolenus barathri Common name: Bigeye ocean perch Previous nomenclature: Scorpaena barathri

Morphometry (Note: Data includes juvenile and adult specimens.) TL = 37.487 OW 0.444 mm n = 9; Std Err Est = 0.05; R = 0.963; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 74.0–164.0 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens of 175, 228 and 365 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF44, DMF50–51 and DMF58. Catch locality Disaster Bay, New South Wales, 200 m depth. ID by DMF. Otolith description Otolith large, ovate to fusiform. Dorsal margin domed and lobed/irregular; ventral margin slightly rounded and irregular; posterior margin bluntly rounded. Distal surface flat; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove moderate, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum homomorph. Crista superior well developed and ridge-like; crista inferior well developed under cauda. Rostrum moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Excisura moderate; notch shallow; angle wide. Dorsal area depression large and oval. Ventral area depression abent. Primordium central.

Mass = 1.312 × 10 –5 TL 3.027 g n = 64; Std Err Est = 0.224; R = 0.99; P<0.001; Fish length range = 51–494 mm TL (CMAR) Distribution and ecology Central New South Wales to southern Western Australia, and Tasmania; 180–1015 m depth, but typically 350–550 m depth; reaches 470 mm in length (Daley et al. 1997). Predator–prey information Known prey of striped trumpeter (Latris lineata) and barracouta (Thyrsites atun) (CMAR unpublished data).

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a

b

Otoliths of Helicolenus barathri from fish of 175 mm and 365 mm TL, figures a and b, respectively. Two otoliths have been included to illustrate changes with ontogeny.

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Order: SCORPAENIFORMES Family: Sebastidae Species: Helicolenus percoides Common names: Reef ocean perch (coral cod, coral perch, red ocean perch) Previous nomenclature: Sebastes percoides

Morphometry (Note: Data includes juvenile and adult specimens.) TL = 31.689 OW 0.474 mm n = 20; Std Err Est = 0.06; R = 0.997; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 3.5–128.0 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 61 mm and 250 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF60 and DMF64. Catch locality Lakes Entrance, Victoria, 40 m depth, and Gabo Island, Victoria, 140 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 1.481 × 10 –5 TL 3.024 g n = 793; Std Err Est = 0.143; R = 0.992; P<0.001; Fish length range = 57–483 mm TL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith large, ovate/teardrop to fusiform. Dorsal margin rounded and irregular; ventral margin rounded and crenate over anterior half; posterior margin rounded and irregular. Distal surface concave; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove moderate, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Crista superior well developed and ridge-like over ostium; crista inferior well developed under cauda and ridge-like under ostium. Rostrum moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Excisura moderate, notch indistinct. Dorsal area depression large and oval. Primordium lateral.

Distribution and ecology Central New South Wales to southern Western Australia, and Tasmania (Last et al. 1983); also New Zealand; rocky reefs and mud, juveniles on inner continental shelf and deeper coastal reefs, 10–250 m depth (Daley et al. 1997, Edgar et al. 1982); reaches 470 mm in length (Last et al. 1983). Predator–prey information Known prey of striped trumpeter (Latris lineata) and John dory (Zeus faber) (CMAR unpublished data).

Otolith of Helicolenus percoides from a fish of 61 mm TL

86

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Order: SCORPAENIFORMES Family: Sebastidae Species: Scorpaena papillosa Common names: Southern red scorpionfish (common red rock cod/gurnard/gurnet) Previous nomenclature: Scorpaena ergastulorum, Synanceja papillosus

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 180 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 28.4P1. Catch locality Sydney. ID by RG.

Distribution and ecology Southern New South Wales to eastern edge of Great Australian Bight; also New Zealand; shallow waters with rough bottom to 130 m depth; reaches 360 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith medium, fusiform. Dorsal margin entire and slightly irregular; ventral margin irregular to lobed with antero-ventral portion crenate. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Posterior end of cauda extends via a groove to postero-ventral margin. Colliculum heteromorph. Crista superior ridge-like and angled ventrally in posterior region; crista inferior ridge-like. Rostrum elongate, stout and rounded. Antirostrum absent. Excisura present; angle wide.

Predator–prey information Known prey of the Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Gales and Pemberton 1994, Hume et al. 2004).

Otolith of Scorpaena papillosa from a fish of 180 mm TL

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Order: SCORPAENIFORMES Family: Scorpaenidae Species: Glyptauchen panduratus Common names: Goblinfish (saddle-head) Previous nomenclature: Apistes panduratus, Glyptauchen insidiator

Morphometry TL 110 mm = fish weight 26.3 g (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 110 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 28.1P31. Catch locality south-western Bass Strait, off Stanley, Tasmania. ID by RG.

Distribution and ecology South-eastern Australia from southern New South Wales to Rottnest Island (Western Australia), and Tasmania; on coastal reefs and under jetties or areas offering shelter; reaches 190 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith fusiform. Dorsal margin lobed to irregular; ventral margin entire; posterior margin noduliferous. Sulcus groove homosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium and cauda deep with cauda slightly larger than ostium and extending to postero-ventral margin via groove. Colliculum heteromorph. Crista superior distinct and ridge-like at neck while broad above ostium and cauda; crista inferior ridge-like at neck and extends below ostium. Rostrum broad and rounded. Antirostrum absent. Excisura absent. Dorsal area depression small, oval. Ventral area depression absent.

Predator–prey information Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Gales and Pemberton 1994, Hume et al. 2004).

Otolith of Glyptauchen panduratus from a fish of 110 mm TL

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Order: SCORPAENIFORMES Family: Scorpaenidae Species: Gymnapistes marmoratus Common names: Soldierfish (cobbler, soldier, South Australian cobbler) Previous nomenclature: Apistes marmoratus, Apistes tasmaniensis

Morphometry TL = 19.80 OL1.16 mm n = 49; Std Err Est = 0.070; R = 0.99; Otolith length range = 1.4–5.7 mm (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens of 63–81 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 28.2P7, P19 and P26. Catch locality Storm Bay and Margate, southern Tasmania. ID by RG.

Mass = 1.05 × 10 –5TL3.09 g n = 49; Std Err Est = 0.123; R = 1.00; Fish length range = 31–169 mm TL (TMAG)

Otolith description Otolith very small to small, ovate to fusiform. Dorsal margin lobed; ventral margin entire to slightly lobed on antero-ventral margin. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium extends onto rostrum and larger than cauda. The cauda extends towards the postero-ventral margin via a groove. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum indistinct or absent. Crista superior ridge-like above neck and ostium; crista inferior ridge-like, extending onto rostrum and sometimes nebuliform centrally. Rostrum broad, moderate in length and rounded. Excisura deep with acute angle when present in larger otoliths. Dorsal area depression deep, oval. Ventral area depression absent, but groove present.

Distribution and ecology Southern Australia from Port Hacking (New South Wales) to Champion Bay (Western Australia), and Tasmania; common in seagrass beds in inshore waters; reaches 180 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information Known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Hume et al. 2004), black-faced shag (Leucocarbo fuscescens), great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) and pied cormorant (Phalacrocorax varius) (Marchant and Higgins 1990).

Otolith of Gymnapistes marmoratus from a fish of 81 mm TL

89

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Order: SCORPAENIFORMES Family: Triglidae Species: Chelidonichthys kumu Common names: Red gurnard (flying gurnard, kumu gurnard, kumukumu) Previous nomenclature: Trigla kumu

Morphometry FL = 134.155 OW 0.321 mm n = 14; Std Err Est = 0.118; R = 0.778; P<0.002 Otolith weight range = 8.5–37.0 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 423 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF3–4. Catch locality Gabo Island, Victoria, 200 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 3.474 × 10 –4 FL 2.437 g n = 25; Std Err Est = 0.234; R = 0.867; P<0.001; Fish length range = 237–480 mm FL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith small, circular-rhomboidal. Dorsal margin raised rounded and crenate to irregular; ventral margin slightly rounded and irregular; posterior margin oblique and crenate/irregular. Distal surface slightly concave; proximal surface slightly convex. Sulcus groove deep, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph. Crista superior and inferior well developed and ridge-like along entire sulcus, except under ostium where development is poor. Rostrum short and sharply rounded. Excisura moderate; notch shallow; angle acute. Dorsal area largely covered by shallow depression. Ventral area with indistinct groove. Primordium central.

Distribution and ecology Queensland to Western Australia, and Tasmania (May and Maxwell 1986); also New Zealand, South Africa, China, Japan and Korea (Gomon et al. 1994) and South America (Kuiter 1993); in sheltered waters to <200 m depth (Gomon et al. 1994), over sandy and muddy substrate (Baird 1994); reaches 600 mm in length (Hutch and Swain 1986). Predator–prey information Known prey of westland petrel (Procellaria westlandica) (Freeman 1998).

Otolith of Chelidonichthys kumu from a fish of 423 mm FL

90

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Order: SCORPAENIFORMES Family: Triglidae Species: Lepidotrigla modesta Common names: Cocky gurnard (grooved gurnard) Previous nomenclature: Paratrigla modesta

Morphometry FL = 208.721 OW 0.002 mm n = 10; Std Err Est = 0.049; R = 0.013; P<0.972 Otolith weight range = 21.1–72.0 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 76 and 185 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference 28.8P3 and DMF38, respectively. Catch locality southwestern Bass Strait off Stanley (Tasmania), and Wilsons Promontory (Victoria) at 120 m depth. ID by RG, and DMF.

Mass = 1.154 × 10 –4 FL 2.576 g n = 135; Std Err Est = 0.155; R = 0.866; P<0.001; Fish length range = 115–230 mm FL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith small, discoid to nearly triangular in smaller specimens. Dorsal margin lobed to crenate; ventral margin sinuate; anterior margin entire; posterior margin extended and sharply rounded/irregular. Distal surface concave; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove deep, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium smaller than cauda which extends dorsally as grooves. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum low and broad. Crista superior and crista inferior well developed and rounded. Rostrum short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum absent or very small. Excisura shallow; angle wide. Dorsal area depression broadly oval, shallow. Ventral area with shallow, indistinct groove. Primordium central.

Distribution and ecology Central New South Wales to Shark Bay (Western Australia), and Tasmania (Gomon et al. 1994, May and Maxwell 1986); 10–200 m depth; reaches 220 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of pied cormorant (Phalacrocorax varius) (Marchant and Higgins 1990).

Otolith of Lepidotrigla modesta from a fish of 185 mm FL

91

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Order: SCORPAENIFORMES Family: Triglidae Species: Lepidotrigla mulhalli Common names: Roundsnout gurnard (Mulhall’s gurnard)

Morphometry TL = 235.803 OW –0.08 mm n = 10; Std Err Est = 0.033; R = 0.428; P<0.218 Otolith weight range = 17.0–26.0 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens. Specimen 1 and 2 of 150 and157 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 28.9P82 and P84. Catch locality Storm Bay, southern Tasmania, 25 m depth. ID by RG. Specimen 3 of 162 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF61. Catch locality Bermagui, New South Wales, 40 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 1.231 × 10 –5 TL 3.018 g n = 195; Std Err Est = 0.111; R = 0.936; P<0.001 Fish length range = 118–212 mm TL (TMAG + CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith small, oval to fusiform. Dorsal margin sinuate to lobed; ventral margin sinuate/dentate; posterior margin pointed and extensively lobed. Distal surface concave; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium and cauda deep. Cauda crescent shaped. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum distinctly raise and slightly constricted. Crista superior ridge-like and more defined than crista inferior. Rostrum short and rounded. Antirostrum similar in size to rostrum and rounded. Excisura moderate; notch shallow; angle wide. Dorsal area raised and smooth. Ventral area groove present. Primordium central.

Distribution and ecology New South Wales to western Bass Strait, and Tasmania; 10–210 m depth; reaches >200 mm in length (May and Maxwell 1986). Predator–prey information Known prey of John dory (Zeus faber), sand flathead (Platycephalus bassensis) and butterfly gurnard (Lepidotrigla vanessa) (Coleman and Mobley 1984).

Otolith of Lepidotrigla mulhalli from a fish of 162 mm TL

92

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Order: SCORPAENIFORMES Family: Triglidae Species: Lepidotrigla papilio Common name: Spiny Gurnard Previous nomenclature: Lepidotrigla phalaena, Paratrigla papilio, Trigla papilio

Morphometry Mass = 8.250 × 10 –9 TL 4.396 g n = 5; Std Err Est = 0.169; R = 0.976; P<0.004; Fish length range = 160-184 mm TL (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 177 and 184 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 28.11P23 and P24. Catch locality southwestern Bass Strait off Stanley, Tasmania. ID by RG.

Distribution and ecology Northern New South Wales to Perth (Western Australia), and Tasmania; sheltered and moderately exposed sandy substrate, to 60 m depth; reaches 200 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith small, coarsely triangular. Dorsal margin dentate to lobed; ventral margin sinuate. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium smaller than cauda and extends dorsally via a groove. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum present. Crista superior well defined and ridge-like along entire sulcus; crista inferior less developed than crista superior and rounded. Rostrum short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum shorter than rostrum and more pointed. Excisura wide with 90° angles at dorsal and ventral edges giving a rectangular appearance. Dorsal area depression well defined large oval. Ventral area depression absent.

Predator–prey information Known prey of the great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) (Marchant and Higgins 1990).

Otolith of Lepidotrigla papilio from a fish of 184 mm TL

93

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Order: SCORPAENIFORMES Family: Triglidae Species: Lepidotrigla vanessa Common names: Butterfly gurnard (bight gurnard) Previous nomenclature: Trigla vanessa

Morphometry FL = 128.509 OW 0.246 mm n = 10; Std Err Est = 0.051; R = 0.888; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 8.0–24.0 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens. Specimen 1 and 2 of 168 and 266 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 28.10P41 and P48. Catch locality Bass Strait, off Stanley, Tasmania; and Storm Bay, southern Tasmania, at 25 m depth. ID by RG. Specimen 3 of 316 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF27. Catch locality Disaster Bay, New South Wales, 25 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 9.225 × 10 –5 FL 2.641 g n = 20; Std Err Est = 0.139; R = 0.955; P<0.001; Fish length range = 152–316 mm FL (CMAR) Distribution and ecology Central New South Wales to southern Western Australia, and Tasmania (Kuiter 1993); occasionally in shallow sand flats, especially in more exposed habitats (Edgar et al. 1982), 20–100 m depth; reported to reach 280 mm TL (Gomon et al. 1994) although this was exceeded in the current guide (max. 316 mm FL).

Otolith description Otolith very small, oval to discoid. Dorsal margin sinuate to crenate; ventral margin rounded and sinuate/ crenate; posterior margin rounded to irregular. Distal surface concave; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial to nearly ostio-caudal. Ostium and cauda similar in size, well defined and deep. Colliculum heteromorph, indistinct. Collum broad and low. Crista superior distinct and ridge-like and extends along sulcus; crista inferior well defined at neck, but poorly developed at extremes. Rostrum short and rounded to pointed. Antirostrum similar in shape, but smaller than rostrum. Excisura shallow and wide angled in small specimens to deep with acute angle in larger ones. Dorsal area depression broad and shallow. Ventral area raised, groove present. Primordium central.

Predator–prey information None cited.

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a

b

Otoliths of Lepidotrigla vanessa from fish of 168 mm TL and 316 mm FL, figures a and b, respectively. Two otoliths have been included to illustrate changes with ontogeny. (Note: Some debris is present on the surface of otolith a.)

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Order: SCORPAENIFORMES Family: Triglidae Species: Pterygotrigla polyommata Common names: Latchet (sharp-beaked gurnard) Previous nomenclature: Trigla polyommata

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens. Specimen 1 and 2 of 185 and 207 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference 28.13P63-64. Catch locality Storm Bay, southern Tasmania, at 25 m depth. ID by RG. Specimen 3 of 366 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF33. Catch locality Lakes Entrance, Victoria, 120 m depth. ID by DMF.

Morphometry FL = 197.749 OW 0.239 mm n = 10; Std Err Est = 0.037; R = 0.984; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 12.0–26.0 mg (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith very small, hour-glass shaped. Dorsal margin entire to slightly lobed; ventral margin bluntly rounded and crenate to irregular; posterior margin notched or irregular. Distal surface concave; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove homosulcoid, opening ostial but may appear ostio-caudal. Colliculum generally homomorph. Collum broad and low. Crista superior and crista inferior well defined and ridge-like particularly at neck. Rostrum and antirostrum moderate and sharply rounded to pointed. Pseudo-rostrum and pseudo-antirostrum smaller. Excisura deep; notch shallow; angle acute. Pseudo-excisura deep with very acute angle and lobed within notch in some specimens. Ventral area with indistinct groove. Primordium central.

Distribution and ecology Southern Queensland to central Western Australia (Tuma 1994), and Tasmania; also New Zealand (Gomon et al. 1994); sandy, muddy bottom from 35 to 200 m depth, reaching into shallow estuaries in Tasmania; juveniles enter bays and estuaries especially in autumn (Edgar et al. 1982); reaches 620 mm in length (May and Maxwell 1986).

Mass = 3.461 × 10 –6 FL 3.239 g n = 20; Std Err Est = 0.22; R = 0.897; P<0.001; Fish length range = 283–445 mm FL (CMAR)

Predator–prey information Known prey of John dory (Zeus faber), sand flathead (Platycephalus bassensis) and butterfly gurnard (Lepidotrigla vanessa) (Coleman and Mobley 1984).

Otolith of Pterygotrigla polyommata from a fish of 366 mm FL 96

S CO R PA ENIF O R M E S

Order: SCORPAENIFORMES Family: Platycephalidae Species: Neoplatycephalus aurimaculatus Common names: Toothy flathead (yellow-finned flathead) Previous nomenclature: Platycephalus aurimaculatus, Neoplatycephalus sp.1

Morphometry Mass = 1.383 × 10 –7 TL 3.63 g n = 5; Std Err Est = 0.114; R = 0.982; P<0.003; Fish length range = 370–540 mm TL (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens. Specimen 1 of 213 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 28.23P1. Catch locality Bass Strait, off Stanley, Tasmania. ID by RG. Specimen 2 of 393 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF6-7. Catch locality Gabo Island, Victoria, 40 m depth. ID by DMF.

Distribution and ecology Victoria to South Australia, and Tasmania (Last et al. 1983); 10–160 m depth (Gomon et al. 1994); reaches 550 mm in length.

Otolith description Otolith medium, spindle-shaped. Dorsal margin rounded and crenate; ventral margin entire; posterior margin blunt and irregular. Distal surface flat/ concave; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove medium, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph. Crista superior well developed and ridge-like over neck; crista inferior well developed throughout. Rostrum moderate, sharply rounded. Excisura wide; notch shallow; angle wide.

Predator–prey information Known prey of common stargazer (Kathetostoma laeve) (Last et al. 1983). Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Hume et al. 2004) and shy albatross (Thalassarche cauta) (Hedd et al. 2001).

Otolith of Neoplatycephalus aurimaculatus from a fish of 393 mm TL 97

S CO R PA ENIF O R M E S

Order: SCORPAENIFORMES Family: Platycephalidae Species: Neoplatycephalus conatus Common names: Deepwater flathead (trawl flathead) Previous nomenclature: Platycephalus conatus

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 245 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 28.19P19. Catch locality unknown. ID by DSF.

Distribution and ecology Southern coast of Australia between western edge of Bass Strait and south-west coast of Western Australia; occurs at 70–360 m depth; reaches 700 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith large, fusiform. Dorsal margin extensively lobed; ventral margin entire; postero-ventral margin lobed. Sulcus groove homosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium and cauda similar in size. Colliculum homomorph. Collum noduliferous. Crista superior and crista inferior ridge-like along entire sulcus. Rostrum broad and rounded. Antirostrum absent. Excisura absent. Ventral area groove short and medial.

Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Neoplatycephalus conatus from a fish of 245 mm TL

98

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Order: SCORPAENIFORMES Family: Platycephalidae Species: Neoplatycephalus richardsoni Common name: Tiger flathead Previous nomenclature: Platycephalus mortoni, Platycephalus richardsoni, Neoplatycephalus grandis

Morphometry (Note: Data includes juvenile and adult specimens.) TL = 339.339 OW 0.084 mm n = 11; Std Err Est = 0.055; R = 0.623; P<0.054 Otolith weight range = 121.0–528.0 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 375 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF62–63. Catch locality Gabo Island, Victoria, 150 m depth. ID by DMF. Otolith description Otolith large, spindle-shaped to fusiform. Dorsal margin rounded and sinuate to crenate; ventral margin slightly rounded and entire; posterior margin sharply rounded and sinuate to lobed. Distal surface concave; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid and curved ventrally at posterior end; opening ostial. Ostium larger than cauda. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum absent. Crista superior and crista inferior ridge-like particularly at neck; crista inferior extending onto the rostrum. Rostrum prominent, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum absent or small and rounded. Excisura shallow; angle wide, notch absent. Dorsal area depression indistinct. Ventral area depression absent, groove present.

Mass = 6.144 × 10 –6 TL 3.029 g n = 342; Std Err Est = 0.198; R = 0.957; P<0.001; Fish length range = 158–620 mm TL (CMAR) Distribution and ecology New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania; 10–400 m depth (Kailola et al. 1993); schooling and inshore migration associated with spawning; larvae thought to be pelagic; juveniles in shallow nursery areas inshore from adult grounds (Rowling 1994); reaches 650 mm in length. Predator–prey information Known prey of common stargazer (Kathetostoma laeve) (Last et al. 1983), piked dogfish (Squalus megalops) (CMAR unpublished data), John dory (Zeus faber) and butterfly gurnard (Lepidotrigla vanessa) (Coleman and Mobley 1984).

Otolith of Neoplatycephalus richardsoni from a fish of 375 mm TL

99

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Order: SCORPAENIFORMES Family: Platycephalidae Species: Platycephalus bassensis Common names: Southern sand flathead (bay flathead, common/slimy flathead, sandy)

Mass = 1.31 × 10 –6TL3.286 g n = 63; Std Err Est = 0.098; R = 0.999; Fish length range = 63–537 mm TL (TMAG + CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 304 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF36–37. Catch locality Wilsons Promontory, Victoria, 40 m depth. ID by DMF.

Distribution and ecology Bermagui (New South Wales) to Bremer Bay (Western Australia), and Tasmania (Hutch and Swain 1986); shallow to 100 m depth over sand and mud (Gomon et al. 1994); reaches 460 mm in length, although this was exceeded in the current guide (max. 537 mm TL).

Otolith description Otolith large, fusiform to spindle-shaped. Dorsal margin rounded and slightly crenate; ventral margin rounded and entire; posterior margin bluntly notched. Distal surface concave; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove medium heterosulcoid approaching homosulcoid; opening ostial. Crista superior and crista inferior rounded and present along entire sulcus. Rostrum short and bluntly rounded. Antirostrum absent. Excisura wide, notch indistinct. Dorsal area depression shallow oval above cauda. Ventral area depression absent. Primordium central.

Predator–prey information Known prey of common stargazer (Kathetostoma laeve) (Last et al. 1983), great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) and little black cormorant (Phalacrocorax sulcirostris) (Marchant and Higgins 1990). Undistinguished species of this Genus are known prey of the black-faced shag (Leucocarbo fuscescens) and pied cormorant (Phalacrocorax varius) (Marchant and Higgins 1990), and Pacific (Larus pacificus) and Kelp gulls (Larus dominicus), and are probably scavenged from recreational fishery discards (Coulson and Coulson 1993).

Morphometry (Note: Data includes juvenile and adult specimens.) TL = 85.884 OW 0.325 mm n = 10; Std Err Est = 0.061; R = 0.936; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 51.0–241.0 mg (CMAR) TL = 27.32 OL1.03 mm n = 36; Std Err Est = 0.055; R = 0.99; Otolith length range = 2.35–18.4 mm (TMAG)

Otolith of Platycephalus bassensis from a fish of 304 mm TL

100

S CO R PA ENIF O R M E S

Order: SCORPAENIFORMES Family: Hoplichthidae Species: Hoplichthys haswelli Common names: Deepsea flathead (spiny flathead) Previous nomenclature: Rhinhoplichys haswelli

Morphometry FL = 27.004 OW 0.572 mm n = 10; Std Err Est = 0.041; R = 0.974; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 40.0–96.0 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 303 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF5. Catch locality Gabo Island, Victoria, 200 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 1.957 × 10 –6FL 3.198 g n = 22; Std Err Est = 0.083; R = 0.983; P<0.001; Fish length range = 207–366 mm FL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith medium, obovate/square. Dorsal margin slightly rounded and crenate; ventral margin straight and entire; posterior margin straight with slight crenation. Distal surface convex; proximal surface flat/ convex. Sulcus groove shallow, heterosulcoid; opening mesial. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum absent. Crista superior well developed over neck and cauda; crista inferior poorly developed throughout. Rostrum, antirostrum and excisura absent. Dorsal area depression shallow, irregular. Ventral area depression absent. Primordium lateral.

Distribution and ecology Southern Queensland to Great Australian Bight, and Tasmania (May and Maxwell 1986); also New Zealand (Gomon et al. 1994); 230–1500 m depth; reaches 430 mm in length. Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Hoplichthys haswelli from a fish of 303 mm FL

101

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Serranidae Species: Caesioperca lepidoptera Common names: Butterfly perch (oia, red perch)

Morphometry (Note: Data includes juvenile and adult specimens.) FL = 38.206 OW 0.466 mm n = 13; Std Err Est = 0.181; R = 0.732; P<0.004 Otolith weigh range = 15.0–66.2 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 175 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF32. Catch locality Point Hicks, Victoria, 25 m depth. ID by DMF. Otolith description Otolith small, oblong. Dorsal margin crenate/ irregular; ventral margin rounded and crenate; posterior margin blunt and irregular. Distal surface flat/concave; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove medium, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph. Crista superior poorly developed, over cauda only; crista inferior ridge-like. Rostrum large and broad. Excisura wide; notch shallow; angle wide. Primordium lateral.

Mass = 1.168 × 10 –5 FL 3.133 g n = 27; Std Err Est = 0.077; R = 0.995; P<0.001; Fish length range = 98–240 mm FL (CMAR) Distribution and ecology New South Wales to Western Australia, and Tasmania; also New Zealand; over reefs and near rock faces (Last et al. 1983); 6–140 m depth; exhibits schooling behaviour above rocky reefs and along dropoffs (May and Maxwell 1986); reaches 470 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information Known prey of spotted swellshark (Cephalloscylium laticeps), common stargazer (Kathetostoma laeve) and striped trumpeter (Latris lineata) (CMAR unpublished data). Unknown species of this Family are known prey of shy albatross (Thalassarche cauta) (Hedd et al. 2001).

Otolith of Caesioperca lepidoptera from a fish of 175 mm FL

102

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Serranidae Species: Caesioperca rasor Common names: Barber perch (red perch, Tasmanian barber)

Morphometry FL = 103.027 OW 0.192 mm n = 9; Std Err Est = 0.101; R = 0.665; P<0.05 Otolith weight range = 16.9–70.0 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 209 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF55. Catch locality Wilsons Promontory, Victoria, 120 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 3.937 × 10 –4 FL 2.44 g n = 18; Std Err Est = 0.071; R = 0.977; P<0.001; Fish length range = 166–251 mm FL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith medium, oblong. Dorsal margin lobed/ irregular; ventral margin rounded and crenate; posterior margin lobed/irregular. Distal surface flat/ concave; proximal surface flat/convex. Sulcus groove medium, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph. Crista superior well developed along neck and cauda; crista inferior well developed throughout. Rostrum large and rounded. Excisura wide; notch shallow; angle wide. Primordium lateral.

Distribution and ecology New South Wales to Western Australia, and Tasmania; also New Zealand (Last et al. 1983); coastal waters with hard bottom, 6–140 m depth; adults exhibit schooling behaviour above rocky outcrops, juveniles stay close to the sea-bed (Gomon et al. 1994); reaches 470 mm in length (May and Maxwell 1986). Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Caesioperca rasor from a fish of 209 mm FL

103

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Serranidae Species: Hypoplectrodes annulata Common name: Blackband seaperch Previous nomenclature: Plectropoma annulatum, Ellerkeldia annulata, Gilbertia annulata

Morphometry n = 2; OW range 85.4–99.1 mg (CMAR) Fish length range = 201–202 mm TL (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 202 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF73. Catch locality Disaster Bay, Victoria, 40 m depth. ID by DMF.

Distribution and ecology Restricted to south-eastern Australia, Queensland to Victoria; coastal reefs and embayments to 100 m depth; reaches 300 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith large, oblong. Dorsal margin irregular; ventral margin slightly rounded and slightly sinuate; posterior margin irregular. Distal surface flat/concave; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove medium, approximately homosulcoid; opening ostial, but may appear ostio-caudal. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum low and wall-like. Crista superior and crista inferior well developed and ridge-like along cauda. Rostrum broad and bluntly rounded. Excisura wide; notch shallow; angle wide. Dorsal area depression shallow oval. Ventral area depression absent, groove present and sculptured irregularly.

Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Hypoplectrodes annulata from a fish of 202 mm TL

104

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Serranidae Species: Lepidoperca pulchella Common name: Eastern orange perch Previous nomenclature: Anthias pulchellus caesiopercula, Lepidoperca inornata

Morphometry FL = 29.253 OW 0.471 mm n = 11; Std Err Est = 0.049; R = 0.982; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 21.1–72.0 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 119 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF75. Catch locality Disaster Bay, Victoria, 100 m depth. ID by DMF. Otolith description Otolith medium, oval/obovate. Dorsal margin lobed/ crenate; ventral margin slightly rounded and irregular; posterior margin irregular. Distal surface flat/ concave; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove medium, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum wall-like. Crista superior well developed; crista inferior generally poorly developed or absent. Rostrum short and rounded. Excisura wide; notch shallow; angle wide. Dorsal area depression narrow and shallow. Ventral area depression absent, groove present.

Mass = 3.954 × 10 –5 FL 2.865 g n = 11; Std Err Est = 0.071; R = 0.991; P<0.001; Fish length range = 119–223 mm FL (CMAR) Distribution and ecology New South Wales to Tasmania; also New Zealand; 50–400 m depth; reaches 280 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Lepidoperca pulchella from a fish of 119 mm FL

105

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Acropomatidae Species: Apogonops anomalus Common name: Threespine cardinalfish

Morphometry FL = 36.379 OW 0.247 mm n = 15; Std Err Est = 0.055; R = 0.753; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 100.0–200.0 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 123 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF11. Catch locality Disaster Bay, New South Wales, 200 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 2.111 × 10 –5 FL 2.864 g n = 126; Std Err Est = 0.3; R = 0.78; P<0.001; Fish length range = 80–152 mm FL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith medium, ovate/obovate with distinctive square appearance to posterior region. Dorsal margin slightly lobed; ventral margin approximately flat and entire; posterior margin approximately straight and entire. Distal surface convex; proximal surface flat. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid with ventral curve at posterior end; opening ostial. Cauda larger than ostium. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum absent. Crista superior extremely well defined and ridge-like over cauda, but absent over ostium; crista inferior well defined and ridge-like along sulcus and onto rostrum where it ends against a marginal notch in the anterior edge of the rostrum. Rostrum prominent, broad and rounded with notch in posterior end. Antirostrum absent. Excisura wide; notch shallow; angle 90°. Primordium lateral.

Distribution and ecology Southern Queensland to Great Australian Bight, and Tasmania; 100–600 m depth in estuary, shelf and slope conditions; reaches 150 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information Known prey of striped trumpeter (Latris lineata), gemfish (Rexea solandri) (Bax and Williams 2000), speckled stargazer (Kathetostoma canaster) (CMAR unpublished data), tiger flathead (Neoplatycephalus richardsoni), cucumberfish (Paraulopus nigripinnis), silver dory (Cyttus australis), deepwater flathead (Neoplatycephalus conatus), ocean perch (Helicolenus percoides) (Coleman and Mobley 1984) and New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsterii) (Lake 1997).

106

PERCIFORMES

Otolith of Apogonops anomalus from a fish of 123 mm FL

107

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Acropomatidae Species: Polyprion oxygeneios Common names: Hapuku (New Zealand groper, whapuku)

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 660 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF56–57. Catch locality Disaster Bay, New South Wales, 200 m depth. ID by DMF.

Distribution and ecology New South Wales to Western Australia, and Tasmania; also New Zealand (Last et al. 1983) and Chile (Gomon et al. 1994); to 360 m depth; reaches 1500 mm in length (Last et al. 1983).

Otolith description Otolith large, rectangular/fusiform. Dorsal margin rounded and sinuate/irregular; ventral margin slightly rounded and irregular; posterior margin approximately straight and lobed/irregular. Distal surface concave; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove shallow, heterosulcoid, opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum absent. Crista superior well developed; crista inferior poorly developed to absent. Rostrum large and broadly rounded. Excisura wide; notch shallow; angle acute. Dorsal area depression central, oval and small. Ventral area depression absent.

Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Polyprion oxygeneios from a fish of 660 mm TL

108

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Epigonidae Species: Epigonus denticulatus Common name: White deepsea cardinalfish

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 91 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.13P2. Catch locality unknown. ID by DSF.

Distribution and ecology Southern coast of Australia from New South Wales to Western Australia, and Tasmania; also New Zealand, east and west Atlantic and Japan; 300–600 m depth, juveniles pelagic at slightly shallower depths; reaches 225 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith medium, oval to discoid. Dorsal margin entire to gently lobed; ventral margin lobed. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium larger than cauda and elongate. Colliculum heteromorph and well developed; anterior colliculum raised. Collum indistinct. Crista superior straight and ridge-like along entire sulcus; crista inferior ridge-like and kinked at posterior end of ostium. Rostrum small and hooked. Antirostrum small and rounded. Excisura deep, angle acute. Dorsal area largely covered by shallow depression. Ventral area depression absent.

Predator–prey information Known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Hume et al. 2004).

Otolith of Epigonus denticulatus from a fish of 91 mm TL

109

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Epigonidae Species: Epigonus lenimen Common names: Bigeye deepsea cardinalfish (imperador, red bream, longfin beryx)

Morphometry SL = 19.394 OL1.014 mm n = 38; Std Err Est = 0.063; R = 0.882; Otolith length range = 5.0–9.0 mm (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 110 and 170 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference BG16 and BG17. Catch locality Maria Island, Tasmania. Depth unknown. ID by BG.

Mass = 11.58 × 10 –6 SL3.094 g n = 31; Std Err Est = 0.263; R = 0.868; Fish length range = 90–170 mm SL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith small, oval to ovate. Dorsal margin slightly rounded, crenate; ventral margin well rounded, crenate. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium larger than cauda. Colliculum heteromorph; anterior colliculum raised; posterior colliculum low, indistinct. Collum absent. Crista superior ridge-like along entire sulcus, absent at tip; crista inferior developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Rostrum moderate, broadly rounded. Antirostrum small and rounded. Excisura moderately wide; notch shallow; angle acute. Dorsal area largely covered by shallow depression. Ventral area depression absent or indistinct.

Distribution and ecology Victoria to Western Australia, and Tasmania; also New Zealand, South Africa and Argentina; deepwater species common near the bottom on the continental slope from 800 to 1100 m depth; reaches 220 mm in length (Last et al. 1983, May and Maxwell 1986). Predator–prey information Known prey of the shy albatross (Thalassarche cauta), possibly scavenged from commercial fishing boats (Hedd et al. 2001).

Otolith of Epigonus lenimen from a fish of 170 mm SL

110

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Apogonidae Species: Vincentia conspersa Common names: Southern cardinalfish (southern gobbleguts) Previous nomenclature: Apogon conspersus, Apogonichthys ramsayi, Vincentia guntheri, Vincentia lemprier, Vincentia waterhousii

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 47 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.17P9. Catch locality unknown. ID by RG / CL.

Distribution and ecology New South Wales to South Australia, and Tasmania; coastal reefs and rocky ledges at depths to >65 m; reaches 140 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994, Last et al. 1983).

Otolith description Otolith small, oval to slightly obovate. Dorsal margin irregular to lobed; ventral margin entire. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium broader and longer than cauda. Colliculum heteromorph and well developed. Crista superior ridge-like and extends over centre of sulcus with a crescent shape resulting from dorsally curved anterior and posterior ends; crista inferior rounded and noduliferous extending along sulcus. Rostrum absent. Antirostrum absent. Excisura absent. Dorsal area depression circular, shallow. Ventral area groove present; ventral area noduliferous.

Predator–prey information Known prey of bottlenose and common dolphins (Tursiops truncatus and Delphinus delphis) (Kemper and Gibbs 2002). Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Gales and Pemberton 1994).

Otolith of Vincentia conspersa from a fish of 47 mm FL

111

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Dinolestidae Species: Dinolestes lewini Common names: Longfin pike (skipjack pike)

Morphometry FL = 38.551 OW 0.459 mm n = 9; Std Err Est = 0.047; R = 0.95; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 93.4–221.8 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 376 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF68–69. Catch locality Disaster Bay, Victoria, 40 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 1.368 × 10 –6 FL 3.302 g n = 10; Std Err Est = 0.034; R = 0.997; P<0.001; Fish length range = 300–436 mm FL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith large, ovate/rectangular. Dorsal margin approximately flat and irregular; ventral margin rounded and slightly sinuate; posterior margin irregular. Distal surface flat/irregular; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove deep, heterosulcoid; opening may be ostial (but uncertain due to otolith damage). Colliculum heteromorph. Crista superior well developed and ridge-like; crista inferior well developed. Rostrum, antirostrum and excisura region damaged. Dorsal area depression deep rectangular. Ventral area depression shallow and broad.

Distribution and ecology New South Wales to Western Australia, and Tasmania (Edgar et al. 1982); rocky reefs and seagrass beds to 65 m depth; occurs in schools over rocky reefs, often in the company of other fish (Edgar et al. 1982, Last et al. 1983); reaches 900 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Dinolestes lewini from a fish of 376 mm FL. (Note: Anterior portion of reference otolith is missing.)

112

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Sillaginidae Species: Sillaginodes punctata Common names: King George whiting (South Australian whiting, spotted whiting, black whiting) Previous nomenclature: Sillago punctata, Isosillago maculate

Morphometry SL 99 mm = fish weight 8.6 g (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 99 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.20P1 Catch locality unknown. ID by RG.

Distribution and ecology Northern New South Wales to Jurien Bay (Western Australia); juveniles abundant in seagrass beds in shallow sheltered areas, with adults moving out to 25 m depth to weedy and sandy areas; reaches 720 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith small, broad hour-glass shaped. Dorsal margin entire; ventral margin entire. Sulcus groove homosulcoid; opening ostio-caudal. Ostium and cauda similar in size and both deep. Colliculum present. Collum raised and broad with deep central pit. Crista superior distinct; crista inferior poorly developed. Rostrum stout, broad and rounded. Antirostrum similar, but more pointed. Pseudo-rostrum and pseudo-antirostrum smaller than rostrum and antirostrum, respectively, but similar in shape. Excisura deep,angle acute. Pseudo-excisura not as deep and with more acute angle. Ventral area groove present.

Predator–prey information Known prey of bottlenose and common dolphins (Tursiops truncatus and Delphinus delphis) (Kemper and Gibbs 2002). Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Gales and Pemberton 1994) and pied cormorant (Phalacrocorax varius) (Marchant and Higgins 1990).

Otolith of Sillaginodes punctata from a fish of 99 mm SL. (Note: Some debris is present on the otolith surface.)

113

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Sillaginidae Species: Sillago bassensis Common names: Southern school whiting (sand whiting, red spot whiting, weedy whiting, western school whiting)

Morphometry (Note: Data includes juvenile and adult specimens.) SL = 16.78 OL1.04 mm n = 33; Std Err Est = 0.048; R = 0.95; Otolith length range = 4.75–10.7 mm (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 85 and 135 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.21P9 and P29. Catch locality southern Tasmania. ID by RG. Otolith description Otolith large, oval. Dorsal margin entire to irregular; ventral margin lobed; posterior margin sinuate. Sulcus groove straight and heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium and cauda indistinct. Colliculum poorly defined; low granular surface; heteromorph. Collum absent. Crista superior and crista inferior absent. Rostrum and antirostrum absent or minute. Excisura usually absent or, if present, very shallow. Dorsal area and ventral area nondescript.

Mass = 1.11 × 10 –5 SL 3.02 g n = 30; Std Err Est = 0.05; R = 0.99; Fish length range = 85–208 mm SL (TMAG) Distribution and ecology Southern Australia from Western Port (Victoria) to Geraldton (Western Australia), and Tasmania (Gomon et al. 1994, Last et al. 1983); found in bay waters from several centimetres depth off sandy beaches through to 40 m depth; reaches 330 mm in length. Predator–prey information Known prey of sand flathead (Platycephalus bassensis) (Coleman and Mobley 1984) and little penguin (Eudyptula minor) (Klomp and Wooller 1988).

Otolith of Sillago bassensis from a fish of 85 mm SL

114

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Sillaginidae Species: Sillago flindersi Common names: Eastern school whiting (spotted whiting) Previous nomenclature: Sillago bassensis flindersi, Parasillago bassensis flindersi

Morphometry FL = 54.707 OW 0.284 mm n = 10; Std Err Est = 0.015; R = 0.932; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 125.0–186.0 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 196 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF12–13. Catch locality Point Hicks, Victoria, 25 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 2.212 × 10 –5 FL 2.842 g n = 231; Std Err Est = 0.141; R = 0.941; P<0.001; Fish length range = 114–302 mm FL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith medium, oblong to rounded-triangular. Dorsal margin rounded and approximately entire; ventral margin slightly rounded and irregular; posterior margin slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Distal surface mildly concave; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove shallow, archaesulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum homomorph, single. Collum absent. Crista superior and crista inferior poorly developed throughout. Excisura wide; notch absent. Rostrum absent. Dorsal area and ventral area nondescript.

Distribution and ecology Southern Queensland to Anxious Bay (central South Australia), and Tasmania (McKay 1992); to 180 m depth; moves into shallow waters at night to feed; exhibits schooling behaviour; reaches 330 mm in length (Last et al. 1983). Predator–prey information Known prey of silver dory (Cyttus australis), reef ocean perch (Helicolenus percoides), common stargazer (Kathetostoma laeve), barracouta (Thyrsites atun), John dory (Zeus faber) (CMAR unpublished data) and crested tern (Sterna bergii) (Chiaradia et al. 2002).

Otolith of Sillago flindersi from a fish of 196 mm FL

115

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Carangidae Species: Pseudocaranx dentex Common names: Silver trevally (araara, silver bream, skipjack, trevally) Previous nomenclature: Caranx dentex, Caranx georgianus, Scomber dentex, Usacaranx georgianus, Usacaranx nobilis

Material Description based on otoliths of four specimens of 91 to 180 mm FL, and two specimens of 249 and 254 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.25P1-3 and P5, and DMF39, respectively. Catch locality Sandy Bay (southern Tasmania); and Bermagui, New South Wales, at 25 m depth. ID by RG and DMF.

Distribution and ecology Gladstone (Queensland) southward to Shark Bay (Western Australia), and Tasmania; also most subtropical and warm temperate waters of the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans; form schools in shallow shelf waters; reaches 940 mm in length (Last et al. 1983, Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith small, ovate/fusiform, rounded posteriorly and pointed anteriorly. Dorsal margin raised and rounded with lobed and irregular sculpturing; ventral margin rounded and irregular to crenate; posterior margin blunt and lobed to irregular. Distal surface concave; proximal surface flat/convex. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium extends onto rostrum. Cauda extends ventrally. Colliculum homomorph with posterior colliculum only. Collum absent. Crista superior rounded and more developed over cauda; crista inferior rounded. Rostrum distinctly elongate, spear-like and pointed (Smale et al. 1995). Antirostrum small, varying from blunt to hook-like. Excisura wide; notch shallow; angle acute to wide. Dorsal area depression very shallow, small. Ventral area depression absent; area may be noduliferous. Primordium central.

Predator–prey information Known prey of bottlenose and common dolphins (Tursiops truncatus and Delphinus delphis) (Kemper and Gibbs 2002), Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Gales and Pemberton 1994, Hume et al. 2004), little penguin (Eudyptula minor) (Gales and Pemberton 1990), Australasian gannet (Morus serrator) (Brothers et al. 1993) and crested tern (Sterna bergii) (Chiaradia et al. 2002). Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of shy albatross (Thalassarche cauta) (Hedd et al. 2001) and great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) (Marchant and Higgins 1990). Undistinguished species of this Genus are known prey of Caspian tern (Sterna caspia) and fairy tern (Sterna nereis) (Higgins and Davies 1996).

Morphometry (Note: Data includes juvenile and adult specimens.) FL = 112.505 OW 0.411 mm n = 9; Std Err Est = 0.08; R = 0.929; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 10.0–33.0 mg (CMAR) SL = 34.15 OL1.08 mm n = 16; Std Err Est = 0.052; R = 0.99; Otolith length range = 1.45–4.3 mm (TMAG) Mass = 8.549 × 10 –5 FL 2.685 g n = 196; Std Err Est = 0.267; R = 0.975; P<0.001 Fish length range = 56–520 mm FL (TMAG + CMAR) 116

PERCIFORMES

Otolith of Pseudocaranx dentex from a fish of 254 mm FL

117

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Carangidae Species: Trachurus declivis Common names: Common jack mackerel (cowanyoung, horse mackerel, scaly mackerel, greenback scad) Previous nomenclature: Caranx declivis

Distribution and ecology New South Wales south to Western Australia, and Tasmania; also New Zealand; in shelf waters from surface to 500 m depth; reaches 640 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens of 112–294 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.27P1 and P3, and DMF45. Catch locality NSW coastal waters, and Point Hicks (Victoria) at 110 m depth. ID by DMF and RG.

Predator–prey information Known prey of a wide range of species including spotted swellshark (Cephalloscylium laticeps), longfin pike (Dinolestes lewini), common stargazer (Kathetostoma laeve), gummy shark (Mustelus antarcticus), barracouta (Thyrsites atun) (CMAR unpublished data), southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii) (Young et al. 1996), ocean perch (Helicolenus percoides), mirror dory (Zenopsis nebulosus), John dory (Zeus faber) (Bulman et al. 2001), bottlenose and common dolphins (Tursiops truncatus and Delphinus delphis) (Kemper and Gibbs 2002), Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Gales and Pemberton 1994, Hume et al. 2004), New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsterii) (Lake 1997, Fea et al. 1999), little penguin (Eudyptula minor) (Gales and Pemberton 1990), shy albatross (Thalassarche cauta) (Hedd et al. 2001), Australasian gannet (Morus serrator) (Brothers et al. 1993) and crested tern (Sterna bergii) (Chiaradia et al. 2002). Similar species of this Family are found as prey of short-tailed shearwater (Puffinus tenuirostris) (Montague et al. 1984).

Otolith description Otolith medium/large, oblong/fusiform. Dorsal margin rounded and crenate to lobed, especially towards and including the posterior margin; ventral margin irregular to crenate. Distal surface flat; proximal surface slightly convex. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid and curved ventrally at posterior end; opening ostial. Ostium rounded and cauda elongate. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum absent. Crista superior well defined and ridge-like; crista inferior ridge-like under cauda, but ill-defined under ostium. Rostrum elongate, rounded to pointed. Antirostrum, if present, minute and sharply rounded. Excisura wide; notch shallow; angle wide. Dorsal area and ventral area depressions absent; ventral groove present. Primordium central. Morphometry (Note: Data includes juvenile and adult specimens.) FL = 292.071 OW 0.067 mm n = 13; Std Err Est = 0.017; R = 0.352; P<0.239 Otolith weight range = 57.0–74.0 mg (CMAR) FL = 16.796 × OL1.3292 mm n = 289, R = 0.99 Fish length range = 76–349 mm FL (R. Kirkwood pers. com. Phillip Is. Nature Park) Mass = 1.292 × 10 –5 FL 2.974 g n = 521; Std Err Est = 0.163; R = 0.987; P<0.001; Fish length range = 84–520 mm FL (CMAR)

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Otolith of Trachurus declivis from a fish of 294 mm FL

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Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Arripidae Species: Arripis trutta Common names: Eastern Australian Salmon (blackback, cockie salmon, colonial salmon, kahawai)

Morphometry (Note: Data includes juvenile and adult specimens.) SL = 23.39 OL0.87 mm n = 36; Std Err Est = 0.17; R = 0.93; Otolith length range = 2.4–17.2 mm (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens of 48–157 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.30P4, P34 and P48. Catch locality Margate, southern Tasmania. ID by RG. Otolith description Otolith small to medium, ovate. Features vary considerably with ontogeny. Dorsal margin lobed in smaller specimens to entire in larger ones; ventral margin sinuate in smaller specimens to acutely dentate in larger. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid and curved ventrally at posterior end, opening ostial. Ostium and cauda well developed. Colliculum heteromorph; anterior colliculum wider than posterior colliculum. Collum absent. Crista superior ridge-like; crista inferior ridge-like except beneath ostium where it is indistinct. Rostrum broad, short and rounded in small otoliths, but broad, short and pointed in large otoliths. Antirostrum rounded in smaller specimens and pointed in larger. Excisura becomes deeper with a more acute angle as individuals increase in size, being groove-like in larger specimens. Dorsal area depression develops with growth, becoming deep above cauda.

Mass = 1.39 × 10 –5 SL 3.06 g n = 36; Std Err Est = 0.075; R = 1.00; Fish length range = 45–172 mm SL (TMAG) Distribution and ecology Southern Quensland to Victoria, and Tasmania; also New Zealand and Lord Howe Island, but predominantly in Bass Strait; pelagic in coastal waters (May and Maxwell 1986); forms large schools in shallow water (Last et al. 1983); reaches 910 mm in length (May and Maxwell 1986). Predator–prey information Known prey of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) (Gales et al. 1992), little penguins (Eudyptula minor) (Montague and Cullen 1987) and great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) (Marchant and Higgins 1990). Undistinguished species of this Genus are known prey of pied cormorant (Phalacrocorax varius) (Marchant and Higgins 1990).

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a

b

Otoliths of Arripis trutta from fish of 48 mm and 157 mm SL, figures a and b, respectively. Two otoliths have been included to illustrate changes with ontogeny.

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Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Emmelichthyidae Species: Emmelichthys nitidus Common names: Redbait (pearl fish, redbait fish) Previous nomenclature: Erythrichthys nitidus

Morphometry FL = 183.277 OW 0.114 mm n = 7; Std Err Est = 0.032; R = 0.615; P<0.142 Otolith weight range = 21.0–34.0 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of four specimens of 250–325 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF59, SD3 and 30.31P4-3. Catch locality Merimbula, Victoria, 120 m depth; Gabo Island, Victoria, 38 m depth; and southern Tasmania, respectively. ID by DMF, SD and RG respectively.

FL = –34.93 + 35.941 × OL mm n = 406, R = 0.961; Fish length range = 104–305 mm FL (Gales and Pemberton 1994)

Otolith description Otolith small/medium, ovate. Dorsal margin acutely dentate; ventral margin serrate; posterior margin lobed. Distal surface flat; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial though may appear ostio-caudal. Ostium largely restricted to rostrum. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum absent. Crista superior ridge-like; crista inferior well developed along cauda and neck. Rostrum elongate, broad and pointed. Antirostrum small and sharply rounded. Excisura wide; notch shallow; angle acute. Dorsal area groove present as a broad depression. Ventral area raised, narrow groove present.

FL = 20.125 × OL1.2238 n = 1218, R = 1.0 Fish length range = 86–204 mm FL (R. Kirkwood, pers. com. Phillip Is. Nature Park) Mass = 3.499 × 10 –6 FL 3.23 g n = 107; Std Err Est = 0.133; R = 0.975; P<0.001; Fish length range = 148–300 mm FL (CMAR) Distribution and ecology South-eastern Australia from New South Wales to South Australia, and Tasmania; also New Zealand, South Africa and Chile (Gomon et al. 1994), Amsterdam and Saint Paul Islands (Last et al. 1983); 20–100 m depth; exhibits schooling behaviour in midwater over the continental shelf (Last et al. 1983, May and Maxwell 1986); reaches 360 mm in length. Predator–prey information Known prey of southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii) (Young et al. 1996), Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Gales and Pemberton 1994, Hume et al. 2004), New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsterii) (Lake 1997), shy albatross (Thalassarche cauta) (Hedd et al. 2001) and Australasian gannet (Morus serrator) (Brothers et al. 1993).

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Otolith of Emmelichthys nitidus from a fish of 250 mm FL

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Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Gerreidae Species: Parequula melbournensis Common names: Silverbelly (lowfin, Melbourne silverbelly, silver biddy) Previous nomenclature: Parequula bicornis

Morphometry Mass = 5.506 × 10 –5 FL 2.754 g n = 10; Std Err Est = 0.058; R = 0.913; P<0.001; Fish length range = 104–119 mm FL (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 148 and 119 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.33P3 and DMF10. Catch locality unknown and Point Hicks Victoria at 25 m depth, respectively. ID by RG and DMF.

Distribution and ecology New South Wales to central Western Australia, and Tasmania (Hutch and Swain 1986); over seagrass and rocky reefs, 3–100 m depth (May and Maxwell 1986); exhibits schooling behaviour, often near reef fringes; reaches 220 mm in length (Last et al. 1983).

Otolith description Otolith small/medium, rhomboidal. Dorsal margin gently lobed in larger specimens and crenate/lobed to irregular in smaller specimens forming noduliferous projections; ventral margin sharply angled and sinuate/irregular; posterior margin sharply rounded. Distal surface flat; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove medium, heterosulcoid and curves slightly ventrally at posterior end; opening ostial. Ostium extends onto rostrum. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum low or absent. Crista superior ridge-like; crista inferior well developed to ridge-like along ostium. Rostrum extremely broad and rounded. Antirostrum broad but short and sharply rounded. Excisura wide; notch deep; angle acute.

a

Predator–prey information Known prey of tiger flathead (Neoplatycephalus richardsoni) and saw shark (Pristiophorus nudipinnis) (Coleman and Mobley 1984), bottlenose and common dolphins (Tursiops truncatus and Delphinus delphis) (Gales et al. 1992, Kemper and Gibbs 2002), Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Gales and Pemberton 1994, Hume et al. 2004) and Caspian tern (Sterna caspia) (Higgins and Davies 1996).

b

Otoliths of Parequula melbournensis from fish of 119 mm and 148 mm FL, figures a and b, respectively. Two otoliths have been included to illustrate changes with ontogeny.

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Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Sparidae Species: Acanthopagrus butcheri Common names: Black bream (bream, silver bream, blue-nosed bream, southern black bream, yellow-fin bream)

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 165 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.34P2 (otolith provided by DSF (BB28)). Catch locality unknown. ID by DSF.

Distribution and ecology Southern Australia from Mallacoota (Victoria) to Shark Bay (Western Australia); in estuaries and coastal waters entering rivers, preferring brackish waters; reaches 550 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith medium, oval to rhomboidal – may vary with ontogeny (Smale et al. 1995). Dorsal margin sinuate to lobed; ventral margin irregular to sinuate. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid with an acute posterior ventral angle; opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph; anterior colliculum and posterior colliculum well developed. Collum absent. Crista superior ridge-like along entire sulcus; crista inferior well developed, extends along rostrum. Rostrum broad and massive. Antirostrum short and rounded. Excisura deep; angle acute.

Predator–prey information Known prey of white-bellied sea eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster), great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) and little black cormorant (Phalacrocorax sulcirostris) (Marchant and Higgins 1990).

Otolith of Acanthopagrus butcheri from a fish of 165 mm TL

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Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Sparidae Species: Pagrus auratus Common names: Snapper (squire, cockney bream, nobblers) Previous nomenclature: Chrysophrys auratus, Chrysophrys unicolor, Labrus auratus, Sparus aurata

Morphometry FL = 14.835 OW 0.617 mm n = 10; Std Err Est = 0.044; R = 0.98; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 41.0–103.6 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 382 and 415 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF24 and DMF25. Catch locality Disaster Bay, New South Wales, 120 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 5.834 × 10 –3 FL 1.944 g n = 13; Std Err Est = 0.204; R = 0.921; P<0.001; Fish length range = 148–344 mm FL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith large, ovate. Dorsal margin slightly rounded and irregular; ventral margin rounded and sinuate to dentate/irregular; posterior margin approximately straight and irregular. Distal surface flat to slightly concave; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove medium, heterosulcoid, opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph. Crista superior ridge-like throughout; crista inferior well developed along neck and cauda. Anterior portion of otolith broken, but rostrum appears broad and bluntly rounded, and excisura appears wide. Dorsal area depression shallow, narrow, following line of crista. Ventral area depression absent. Primordium central.

Distribution and ecology Queensland to Western Australia, and Tasmania; also New Zealand, Norfolk Island and Lord Howe Island (Last et al. 1983); 1–200 m depth, inhabits inlets, bays and shallow sheltered marine waters over mud and seagrass (Kailola et al. 1993) in estuaries and coastal bays; exhibits schooling behaviour (Hutch and Swain 1986); reaches 1300 mm in length (May and Maxwell 1986). Predator–prey information Known prey of crested tern (Sterna bergii) (Chiaradia et al. 2002).

Otolith of Pagrus auratus from a fish of 415 mm FL. (Note: The anterior portion of the otolith has been broken.)

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Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Pempheridae Species: Pempheris multiradiata Common name: Bigscale bullseye Previous nomenclature: Liopempheris multiradiatus, Pempheris multiradiatus

Morphometry FL = 29.107 OW 0.337 mm n = 25; Std Err Est = 0.041; R = 0.954; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 74.1–257.3 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 130 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF67. Catch locality Disaster Bay, Victoria, 40 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 1.113 × 10 –4 FL 2.654 g n = 18; Std Err Est = 0.089; R = 0.975; P<0.001; Fish length range = 121–185 mm FL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith medium, rounded rhomboidal/discoid. Dorsal margin domed and irregular; ventral margin rounded and slightly crenate; posterior margin rounded. Distal surface flat with some irregular sculpturing; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove medium, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum absent. Crista superior ridge-like; crista inferior well developed. Rostrum short and sharply rounded to pointed. Antirostrum very small and pointed. Excisura wide; notch shallow angle acute. Primordium central.

Distribution and ecology New South Wales to central Western Australia, and Tasmania (Kuiter 1993); rocky reefs to 30 m depth; occurs in schools in caves and under ledges by day, particularly juveniles, but feeds actively in open waters at dusk (Last et al. 1983, Kuiter 1993); reaches 280 mm in length (May and Maxwell 1986). Predator–prey information Known prey of little penguin (Eudyptula minor) (Klomp and Wooller 1988), bottlenose and common dolphins (Tursiops truncatus and Delphinus delphis) (Kemper and Gibbs 2002).

Otolith of Pempheris multiradiata from a fish of 130 mm FL

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Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Mullidae Species: Upeneichthys vlamingii Common names: Blue spotted goatfish (Western/ southern red mullet, blue-striped red mullet, goatfish) Previous nomenclature: Upeneichthys sp. in Last et al. 1983 Morphometry SL 185 mm = fish weight 148 g SL 205 mm = fish weight 218 g SL 225 mm = fish weight 296 g (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 185 and 205 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.36P1 and P2. Catch locality Bass Strait off Stanley, Tasmania. ID by RG.

Distribution and ecology Southern Australia from Wilson’s Promontory (Victoria) to Jurien Bay (Western Australia), and Tasmania; shallow rubble bottom and sandy coastal waters to >40 m depth; reaches 300 mm in length (Last et al. 1983; Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith small/medium, triangular. Dorsal margin irregular to coarsely lobed with bulbous projections; ventral margin dentate. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial to ostio-caudal. Colliculum homomorph, two colliculi. Collum absent, but step up between deep ostium and cauda. Crista superior ridge-like over neck and anterior cauda; crista inferior well developed under neck and cauda. Rostrum variable, stout and rounded to stout and pointed with lobe into excisura notch. Antirostrum small and sharply rounded. Excisura deep (cave-like if rostrum lobe present); angle acute. Dorsal area depression narrow, elongate above crista. Ventral area depression absent.

Predator–prey information Known prey of bottlenose and common dolphins (Tursiops truncatus and Delphinus delphis) (Kemper and Gibbs 2002). Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Gales and Pemberton 1994).

Otolith of Upeneichthys vlamingii from a fish of 185 mm SL

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Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Kyphosidae Species: Atypichthys strigatus Common name: Mado Previous nomenclature: Atypus mado, Atypus strigatus

Morphometry FL = 45.376 OW 0.374 mm n = 28; Std Err Est = 0.036; R = 0.939; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 17.2–44.8 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 142 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF70. Catch locality Disaster Bay, Victoria, 40 m depth. ID by DMF. Otolith description Otolith medium, oval. Dorsal margin rounded and lobed to sinuate; ventral margin rounded and slightly sinuate; posterior margin sharply rounded to pointed. Distal surface concave; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove medium, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum absent. Crista superior ridge-like; crista inferior poorly developed. Rostrum large and broadly rounded. Excisura wide; notch shallow; angle acute.

Mass = 6.823 × 10 –4 FL 2.332 g n = 31; Std Err Est = 0.078; R = 0.949; P<0.001; Fish length range = 130–184 mm FL (CMAR) Distribution and ecology Queensland to Tasmania; also Lord Howe Island (Last et al. 1983) and New Zealand (Edgar et al. 1982); rocky reefs to 30 m depth; occurs in schools in the vicinity of caves and ledges; reaches 250 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information Known prey of pied cormorant (Phalacrocorax varius) (Marchant and Higgins 1990).

Otolith of Atypichthys strigatus from a fish of 142 mm FL

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Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Scorpididae Species: Scorpis lineolata Common name: Silver sweep

Morphometry FL = 44.167 OW 0.381 mm n = 7; Std Err Est = 0.03; R = 0.951; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 38.3–77.1 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 177 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF77. Catch locality Disaster Bay, Victoria, 40 m depth. ID by DMF. Otolith description Otolith medium, oval. Dorsal margin slightly rounded and crenate/irregular; ventral margin rounded and crenate; posterior margin sharply rounded and crenate to irregular. Distal surface concave; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove deep, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum absent. Crista superior well developed and ridge-like at neck; crista inferior well developed. Rostrum broad and blunt. Antirostrum small and pointed. Excisura wide; notch shallow; angle acute. Dorsal area depression shallow oval close to crista. Ventral area depression absent.

Mass = 2.838 × 10 –4 FL 2.538 g n = 8; Std Err Est = 0.07; R = 0.962; P<0.001; Fish length range = 177–227 mm FL (CMAR) Distribution and ecology Southern Queensland to Tasmania, also Lord Howe Island (Last et al. 1983); wave-exposed reefs, 0–20 m depth, moving closer inshore during the day; schooling along exposed coastlines and quiet reef areas, occasionally enter estuaries; juveniles common in tidepools (Edgar et al. 1982, Gomon et al. 1994); reaches 360 mm in length. Predator–prey information Know prey of little tern (Sterna albifrons) (Higgins and Davies 1996).

Otolith of Scorpis lineolata from a fish of 177 mm FL

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Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Aplodactylidae Species: Aplodactylus arctidens Common names: Marblefish (keke, marbled kelpfish, sea carp, stinky groper) Previous nomenclature: Aplodactylus meandratus, Dactylosargus arctidens

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 295 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.58P1. Catch locality southern Tasmania. ID by GF.

Distribution and ecology Victoria to Western Australia, and Tasmania; also New Zealand; reef dwelling in depths to 40 m but commonly just below tide-mark in exposed coasts; reaches 600 mm in length (Last et al. 1983, Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith medium, elongate, anvil-shaped. Dorsal margin lobed; ventral margin entire, posterior margin lobed and notched. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph; anterior colliculum absent; posterior colliculum indistinct. Collum broad. Crista superior and crista inferior distinct and rounded. Rostrum elongate, 30% of otolith length, slender and pointed. Antirostrum moderate and slender, half size of rostrum and rounded. Excisura deep with parallel upper and lower sides; angle acute. Dorsal area groove present.

Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Aplodactylus arctidens from a fish of 295 mm SL

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Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Cheilodactylidae Species: Nemadactylus douglasii Common names: Grey morwong (blue morwong) Previous nomenclature: Cheilodactylus douglasi, Cheilodactylus morwong, Dactylopagrus morwong

Morphometry FL = 81.206 OW 0.52 mm n = 21; Std Err Est = 0.064; R = 0.969; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 5.7–30.4 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 251 and 415 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF71 and DMF72. Catch locality Disaster Bay, Victoria, 45 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 2.665 × 10 –7 FL 3.747 g n = 17; Std Err Est = 0.106; R = 0.998; P<0.001; Fish length range = 134–415 mm FL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith medium, elongate and elliptic. Dorsal margin rounded and irregular; ventral margin flat to slightly rounded and mildly crenate; posterior margin rounded to irregular. Sulcus groove deep, heterosulcoid; opening ostial, but Cheilodactylidae may become ostiocaudal (Smale et al. 1995). Colliculum heteromorph. Crista ridge-like over ostium and beneath neck and cauda. Excisura moderate; notch deep; angle acute. Rostrum moderately broad, long and pointed (growth of rostrum and antirostrum in larger otoliths may fuse, closing over the notch area). Dorsal area depression small above crista superior. Ventral area depression as short shallow trough, groove present with fine irregular sculpturing. Primordium central.

Distribution and ecology Southern Queensland to Tasmania (Last et al. 1983); 10–100 m depth; exhibits schooling behaviour (Hutch and Swain 1986, Kailola et al. 1993); reaches 810 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information None cited.

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a

b

Otoliths of Nemadactylus douglasii from fish of 251 mm and 415 mm FL, figures a and b, respectively. Two otoliths have been included to illustrate changes with ontogeny. (Note: In otolith b, fusing of the rostrum and antirostrum has resulted in closing the excisura and a single hole remains.)

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Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Cheilodactylidae Species: Nemadactylus macropterus Common names: Jackass morwong (jackass fish, perch, silver perch, squeeker perch, tarakihi) Previous nomenclature: Cheilodactylus macropterus, Dactylopagrus macropterus

Morphometry FL = 86.921 OW 0.38 mm n = 21; Std Err Est = 0.084; R = 0.948; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 11.0–70.0 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens of 142 mm SL, and 313 and 340 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.63P5, DMF49 and DMF74, respectively. Catch locality Melbourne; Lakes Entrance (Victoria) at 120 m depth, and Disaster Bay (Victoria) at 45 m depth. ID by RG and DMF.

Mass = 4.468 × 10 –5 FL 2.838 g n = 392; Std Err Est = 0.13; R = 0.98; P<0.001; Fish length range = 132–446 mm FL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith small/medium, ovate. Dorsal margin rounded and lobed/irregular; ventral margin slightly rounded to flat and slightly crenate; posterior margin sharply rounded and irregular. Distal surface concave; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove medium, heterosulcoid; opening ostial, but Cheilodactylidae may become ostio-caudal (Smale et al. 1995). Cauda with acute postero-ventral angle. Colliculum heteromorph. Crista superior ridge-like above ostium and neck; crista inferior well developed along entire sulcus. Rostrum prominent, broad and blunt. Antirostrum small and pointed. Excisura moderate; notch shallow; angle acute. Dorsal area depression small but distinct above crista superior. Ventral area depression short narrow trough immediately below sulcus; groove present with fine irregular marginal sculpturing.

Distribution and ecology Southern Queensland to southern Western Australia, and Tasmania (Last et al. 1983); rocky reefs, sand and mud to 450 m depth (Edgar et al. 1982, Smith 1994b); exhibits schooling behaviour during day, dispersing at dusk to feed (Hutch and Swain 1986); reaches 700 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information None cited.

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a

b

Otoliths of Nemadactylus macropterus from fish of 313 mm and 340 mm FL, figures a and b, respectively. Two otoliths have been included to illustrate changes with ontogeny.

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Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Latrididae Species: Latridopsis forsteri Common names: Bastard trumpeter (red, white, and silver trumpeter, copper moki) Previous nomenclature: Latridopsis ciliaris, Latridopsis ramsayi

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 495 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF26. Catch locality Wilsons Promontory, Victoria, 80 m depth. ID by DMF.

Morphometry FL = 337.646 OW 0.085 mm n = 5; Std Err Est = 0.015; R = 0.875; P<0.052 Otolith weight range = 23.8–46.2 mg Fish length range = 438–468 mm FL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith oblong/ovate. Dorsal margin mildly crenate to lobed/irregular; ventral margin slightly rounded and sinuate to serrate; posterior margin bluntly rounded and crenate to irregular. Distal surface concave; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove deep, heterosulcoid; opening appears ostial, but with the cauda connected to the postero-ventral margin via a groove. Colliculum heteromorph; posterior colliculum larger than anterior colliculum with irregular sculpturing. Crista superior well formed over neck and ostium and rounded; crista inferior ridge-like along the entire sulcus. Rostrum broad and extended and may end in a hook-like projection. Antirostrum short and rounded. Excisura wide; notch deep; angle acute. Dorsal area and ventral area depressions shallow rectangle; groove also present on ventral area.

Distribution and ecology South-eastern Australia from New South Wales to South Australia, and Tasmania; also New Zealand (Edgar et al. 1982); rocky reefs and seagrass to 80 m depth; small individuals often school, but larger fish solitary (Edgar et al. 1982, Last et al. 1983); reaches 650 mm in length (Edgar et al. 1982). Predator–prey information Known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Gales and Pemberton 1994, Hume et al. 2004). Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of shy albatross (Thalassarche cauta) (Hedd et al. 2001) and Australasian gannet (Morus serrator) (Brothers et al. 1993).

Otolith of Latridopsis forsteri from a fish of 495 mm FL. (Note: The extremity of the reference otolith has been broken.)

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PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Latrididae Species: Latris lineata Common name: Striped trumpeter Previous nomenclature: Latris mortoni

Morphometry FL = 246.904 OW 0.3 mm n = 3; Std Err Est = 0.007; R = 1; P<0.018 Otolith weight range = 17.0–53.0 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 586 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF28. Catch locality Point Hicks, Victoria, 80 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 2.225 × 10 –8 FL 3.992 g n = 3; Std Err Est = 0.064; R = 0.971; P<0.153; Fish length range = 740–810 mm FL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith medium, ovate. Dorsal margin rounded and irregular; ventral margin flat and approximately entire; posterior margin rounded and irregular. Distal surface flat; proximal surface flat/convex. Sulcus groove deep, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum low and bridge-like. Crista superior well developed above neck ostium; crista inferior ridge-like along entire sulcus. Excisura wide; notch deep; angle acute. Rostrum broad, extended and blunt. Antirostrum broad and rounded. Dorsal area and ventral area depressions elongate, narrow oval. Primordium central.

Distribution and ecology New South Wales to southern Western Australia, and Tasmania (Hutch and Swain 1986); also New Zealand (Last et al. 1983); over rocky reefs, 50 to 300 m depth (May and Maxwell 1986); spawning fish move closer to shore; juveniles inhabit shallow reefs (Gomon et al. 1994); reaches 1200 mm in length (May and Maxwell 1986). Predator–prey information Known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Hume et al. 2004).

Otolith of Latris lineata from a fish of 586 mm FL

137

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Mugilidae Species: Aldrichetta forsteri Common names: Yelloweye mullet (estuary mullet, Coorong mullet, conmuri) Previous nomenclature: Agonostomus forsteri, Mugil forsteri

Distribution and ecology Southern coastal waters from southern New South Wales to Shark Bay (Western Australia), and Tasmania; also New Zealand; schools in shallow sandy waters and estuaries; sometimes enters freshwater; reaches maximum of 440 mm in length, but usually smaller (300 mm) (Gomon et al. 1994).

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens of 56–135 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.68P6, P26 and P57. Catch locality southern Tasmania. ID by RG. Otolith description Otolith small, discoid in smaller specimens and oval in larger specimens. Dorsal margin lobed or irregular to concave in larger specimens; ventral margin lobed. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid and curved ventrally at posterior end; opening ostial. Ostium wide and shallow; cauda elongate and deep. Colliculum heteromorph. Crista superior and crista inferior ridge-like along entire sulcus. Rostrum short, angular and pointed. Antirostrum minute and pointed. Excisura shallow with wide angle in larger specimens and deep with acute angle in smaller specimens.

Predator–prey information Known prey of little penguin (Eudyptula minor) (Klomp and Wooller 1988), bottlenose and common dolphins (Tursiops truncatus and Delphinus delphis) (Kemper and Gibbs 2002), great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo), little black cormorant (Phalacrocorax sulcirostris), pied cormorant (Phalacrocorax varius) (Marchant and Higgins 1990), crested tern (Sterna bergii) (Harris and Last 1982, Chiaradia et al. 2002) and little tern (Sterna albifrons) (Higgins and Davies 1996). Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of shy albatross (Thalassarche cauta) (Hedd et al. 2001), white-bellied sea eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster) (Marchant and Higgins 1993), Caspian tern (Sterna caspia) and fairy tern (Sterna nereis) (Higgins and Davies 1996).

Morphometry (Note: Data includes juvenile and adult specimens.) SL = 21.91 OL1.13 mm n = 58; Std Err Est = 0.052; R = 1.00; Otolith length range = 1.7–11.4 mm (TMAG) Mass = 5.81 × 10 –6 SL 3.17 g n = 63; Std Err Est = 0.084; R = 1.00; Fish length range = 34–338 mm SL (TMAG)

138

PERCIFORMES

a

b

Otoliths of Aldrichetta forsteri from fish of 80 mm and 135 mm SL, figures a and b, respectively. Two otoliths have been included to illustrate changes with ontogeny.

139

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Pomacentridae Species: Parma microlepis Common name: White-ear Previous nomenclature: Glyphidodon australis, Parma australis, Parma squamipinnis

Morphometry FL = 147.377 OW –0.001 mm n = 4; Std Err Est = 0.036; R = 0.01 P<0.99; Otolith weight range = 28.0–44.1 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 131 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF78. Catch locality Disaster Bay, Victoria, 40 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 10.535 × 10 –3 FL 1.881 g n = 6; Std Err Est = 0.044; R = 0.949; P<0.004; Fish length range = 131–153 mm FL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith medium, oval/rounded-triangular. Dorsal margin peaked and irregular; posterior margin bluntly rounded. Sulcus groove deep, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph. Crista superior poorly developed; crista inferior poorly developed to absent. Rostrum short and broadly rounded. Excisura wide; notch shallow; angle wide.

Distribution and ecology New South Wales to Tasmania, also New Zealand (Edgar et al. 1982); near caves in shallow waters to 30 m depth (Last et al. 1983); reaches 200 mm in length. Predator–prey information Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Gales and Pemberton 1994, Hume et al. 2004) and white-bellied sea eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster) (Marchant and Higgins 1993).

Otolith of Parma microlepis from a fish of 131 mm FL

140

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Labridae Species: Notolabrus fucicola Common names: Purple wrasse (banded parrotfish, blue wrasse, kelpie, purple parrotfish, southern wrasse, winter bream, yellow-saddled wrasse) Previous nomenclature: Pseudolabrus furicola, Pseudolabrus pittensis

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 222 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.76P21. Catch locality south coast Tasmania. ID by GF.

Distribution and ecology New South Wales to South Australia, and Tasmania; also New Zealand; common in shallow waters near rocky substrates especially on exposed coasts; reaches 450 mm in length (Last et al. 1983).

Otolith description Otolith medium, ovate/anvil-shaped, ventral portion twice as large as dorsal. Dorsal margin gently lobed; ventral margin serrate to dentate. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostio-caudal, (but Labridae species may progress from ostial to ostio-pseudocaudal to ostio-caudal with growth (Smale et al. 1995). Colliculum heteromorph, often indistinct. Collum broad but low. Crista superior ill defined; crista inferior irregular. Rostrum long and broad, blunt. Antirostrum short and rounded. Excisura shallow; angle acute. Dorsal area depression shallow trough above crista superior. Ventral area with irregular nodular sculpturing.

Predator–prey information Unknown species from this Family are known prey of Caspian tern (Sterna caspia) (Higgins and Davies 1996).

Otolith of Notolabrus fucicola from a fish of 222 mm TL

141

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Labridae Species: Notolabrus tetricus Common names: Bluethroat wrasse (bluehead, bluenose, blue-throated parrotfish, kelpie, lilac-banded parrotfish, winter bream) Previous nomenclature: Pseudolabrus tetricus

Morphometry TL = 92.851 OW 0.522 mm n = 10; Std Err Est = 0.048; R = 0.972; P<0.001 Otolith weight range = 8.5–22.4 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 206 and 432 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.78P41 and DMF76. Catch locality southern Tasmania, and Disaster Bay (Victoria) at 40 m depth. ID by RG and DMF, respectively.

Mass = 1.024 × 10 –6 TL 3.499 g n = 6; Std Err Est = 0.094; R = 0.994; P<0.001; Fish length range = 288–450 mm TL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith small/medium, anvil-shaped. Features may change with ontogeny. Dorsal margin and ventral margin approximately flat and entire to slightly sinuate; posterior margin notched and sharply pointed. Distal and proximal surfaces flat. Sulcus groove deep, heterosulcoid; opening ostio-caudal (but Labridae species may progress from ostial to ostio-pseudocaudal to ostio-caudal with growth (Smale et al. 1995). Colliculum heteromorph. Collum absent or low. Crista superior ridge-like over neck and ostium; crista inferior ridge-like along neck and well developed along remainder. Rostrum moderate, broad and rounded. Antirostrum small and rounded. Excisura wide; notch deep; angle acute. Dorsal area depression deep trough above crista superior. Ventral area with irregular nodular sculpturing.

Distribution and ecology Sydney (New South Wales) to Spencer Gulf (South Australia), and Tasmania (May and Maxwell 1986); down to 160 m depth (Kuiter 1993); juveniles and small females inhabit shallow grass and algal communities to at least 20 m, while larger individuals inhabit deeper rocky areas (Gomon et al. 1994); reaches 600 mm in length (Kuiter 1993). Predator–prey information Known prey of bottlenose and common dolphins (Tursiops truncatus and Delphinus delphis) (Kemper and Gibbs 2002).

142

PERCIFORMES

a

b

Otoliths of Notolabrus tetricus from fish of 206 mm and 432 mm TL, figures a and b, respectively. Two otoliths have been included to illustrate changes with ontogeny.

143

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Labridae Species: Ophthalmolepis lineolatus Common name: Southern maori wrasse Previous nomenclature: Opthalmolepis cyanogramma

Morphometry TL = 218.764 OW 0.17 mm n = 7; Std Err Est = 0.046; R = 0.591; P<0.163 Otolith weight range = 7.3–11.8 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 330 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF76. Catch locality Disaster Bay, Victoria, 40 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 1.724 × 10 –6 TL 3.345 g n = 8; Std Err Est = 0.049; R = 0.986; P<0.001; Fish length range = 271–345 mm TL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith small/medium, anvil-shaped. Dorsal margin slightly rounded and entire to broadly crenate; ventral margin flat to slightly rounded and entire to mildly irregular; posterior margin sharply rounded. Distal surface flat; proximal surface flat to slightly convex. Sulcus groove moderate, heterosulcoid; opening ostial (but Labridae species may progress from ostial to ostio-pseudocaudal to ostio-caudal with growth) (Smale et al. 1995). Colliculum heteromorph. Collum absent or low. Crista superior poorly developed; crista inferior developed along neck and ridge-like under cauda. Rostrum broad and tapering to sharply rounded. Antirostrum small and sharply rounded. Excisura wide; notch moderate; angle acute.

Distribution and ecology Confined to Australian waters from southern Queensland to Western Australia; shallow rocky reefs to 30 m depth; reaches 400 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Ophthalmolepis lineolatus from a fish of 330 mm TL

144

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Labridae Species: Pictilabrus laticlavius Common names: Senator wrasse (purple-banded wrasse, senator fish) Previous nomenclature: Eupetrichthys gloveri

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 275 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.75P2. Catch locality southern Tasmania. ID by GF.

Distribution and ecology Southern Australia from Seal Rock (New South Wales) to Houtman Abrolhos Islands (Western Australia), and Tasmania (Gomon et al. 1994); frequents coastal reefs and algal beds, 0–20 m depth; reaches 300 mm in length (Edgar et al. 1982).

Otolith description Otolith small, ovate/anvil-shaped. Dorsal margin entire; ventral margin sinuate to dentate. Sulcus groove straight, heterosulcoid; opening ostial (but Labridae species may progress from ostial to ostiopseudocaudal to ostio-caudal with growth (Smale et al. 1995). Ostium smaller than cauda. Colliculum heteromorph; posterior colliculum consists of rounded projections. Collum absent. Crista superior rounded; crista inferior absent under ostium and poorly formed along the rest of the sulcus. Rostrum short and rounded. Antirostrum small and rounded. Excisura deep; angle acute. Dorsal area depression as deep trough above crista superior. Ventral area depression absent; some sculpturing may occur on ventral area.

Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Pictilabrus laticlavius from a fish of 275 mm TL

145

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Labridae Species: Pseudolabrus mortonii Common name: Rosy wrasse Previous nomenclature: Pseudolabrus psittaculus, Pseudolabrus rubicundus

Morphometry FL = 133.486 OW 0.181 mm n = 12; Std Err Est = 0.054; R = 0.691; P<0.013 Otolith weight range = 9.5–21.4 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 202 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF75. Catch locality Disaster Bay, Victoria, 40 m depth. ID by DMF. Otolith description Otolith medium, spindle/anvil-shaped. Dorsal margin slightly rounded and entire to broadly crenate; ventral margin flat to slightly rounded and entire to mildly irregular; posterior margin sharply rounded. Distal surface flat; proximal surface flat to slightly convex. Sulcus groove moderate, heterosulcoid to homosulcoid; opening ostial (but Labridae species may progress from ostial to ostio-pseudocaudal to ostio-caudal with growth (Smale et al. 1995). Colliculum heteromorph, but indistinct. Collum absent or low. Crista superior well developed particularly over ostium; crista inferior poorly developed. Rostrum broad and tapering to sharply rounded. Antirostrum small and sharply rounded. Excisura wide; notch moderate; angle acute. Dorsal area depression shallow oval above crista superior. Ventral area depression indistinct.

Mass = 1.075 × 10 –5 FL 3.094 g n = 14; Std Err Est = 0.1; R = 0.908; P<0.001; Fish length range = 192–240 mm FL (CMAR) Distribution and ecology New South Wales to southern Western Australia, and Tasmania (Last et al. 1983); rocky reefs, from 2 to 220 m depth (Last et al. 1983); juveniles often in caves in shallow waters (Edgar et al. 1982); reaches 450 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Pseudolabrus mortonii from a fish of 202 mm FL

146

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Odacidae Species: Neoodax balteatus Common names: Little weed whiting (rock whiting, ground mullet) Previous nomenclature: Neoodax algensis, Neoodax brunneus, Neoodax obscurus, Odax balteatus

Morphometry SL = 46.78 OL1.28 mm n = 30; Std Err Est = 0.090; R = 0.90; Otolith length range = 1.0–1.55 mm (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 58 and 83 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.81P5 and P27 Catch locality Margate, Tasmania. ID by RG. Otolith description Otolith very small, anvil-shaped. All margins entire. Sulcus groove homosulcoid; opening ostio-caudal. Ostium similar size to cauda. Colliculum heterosulcoid; anterior colliculum smaller than posterior colliculum. Collum narrow but prominent. Crista superior prominent and rounded; crista inferior rounded. Rostrum short broad and rounded. Antirostrum minute to absent. Pseudo-rostrum and pseudo-antirostrum small and rounded. Excisura and pseudoexcisura shallow; angle wide.

Mass = 1.01 × 10 –5 SL 3.04 g n = 30; Std Err Est = 0.068; R = 0.99; Fish length range = 43–89 mm SL (TMAG) Distribution and ecology Sydney (New South Wales) to Cockburn Sound (Western Australia) and Tasmania; common in seagrass and rocky areas at shallow depths and in exposed rocky reefs and brackish areas to 15 m depth; reaches 160 mm in length (Edgar et al. 1982, Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information Known prey of crested tern (Sterna bergii) (Harris and Last 1982), great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) and pied cormorant (Phalacrocorax varius) (Marchant and Higgins 1990).

Otolith of Neoodax balteatus from a fish of 83 mm SL

147

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Uranoscopidae Species: Ichthyscopus barbatus Common name: Fringe stargazer

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 172 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF42–43. Catch locality Merimbula, Victoria, 25 m depth. ID by DMF.

Distribution and ecology South-eastern New South Wales and South Australia to Rottnest Island (Western Australia); on sandy bottom from 3 to 10 m depth; reaches 400 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith large, oval. Dorsal margin rounded and entire to irregular; ventral margin slightly rounded and entire to mildly irregular; posterior margin notched and sharply rounded. Distal surface concave; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove shallow, archaesulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum homomorph; two colliculi. Collum absent. Crista superior and crista inferior well developed. Rostrum and antirostrum absent. Excisura absent.

Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Ichthyscopus barbatus from a fish of 172 mm TL

148

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Uranoscopidae Species: Kathetostoma canaster Common name: Speckled stargazer Previous nomenclature: Kathetostoma sp.1 in Last et al. 1983

Morphometry TL = 138.517 OW 0.289 mm n = 8; Std Err Est = 0.058; R = 0.655; P<0.078 Otolith weight range = 79.0–124.0 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of four specimens. Specimens 1–3 of 150–360 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.92P1-3. Catch locality Stanley, Bass Strait, Tasmania. ID by RG. Specimen 4 of 533 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF8–9. Catch locality Point Hicks, Victoria, 200 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 2.922 × 10 –6 TL 3.323 g n = 27; Std Err Est = 0.522; R = 0.893; P<0.001; Fish length range = 150–580 mm TL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith large, oval to ovate. Dorsal margin slightly rounded, irregular to crenate; ventral margin rounded and irregular; posterior margin blunt and irregular. Distal surface flat; proximal surface flat to mildly concave. Sulcus groove near homosulcoid; opening ostial. Cauda with slight ventral curve at posterior end. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum absent or indistinct. Crista superior over cauda only, gently rounded and indistinct to raised and irregular; crista inferior more developed and irregular, as an enfolding ridge. Rostrum short and rounded. Antirostrum small and rounded. Excisura absent, but shallow notch present with acute angle. Primordium central.

Distribution and ecology New South Wales to southern Western Australia, and Tasmania; in 30–700 m depth; reaches 650 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994, May and Maxwell 1986). Predator–prey information Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Hume et al. 2004).

Otolith of Kathetostoma canaster from a fish of 533 mm TL

149

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Uranoscopidae Species: Kathetostoma laeve Common names: Common stargazer (barred stargazer, catfish, stonelifter)

Morphometry TL = 103.647 OW 0.29 mm n = 10; Std Err Est = 0.183; R = 0.779; P<0.008 Otolith weight range = 24.0–230.0 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of four specimens. Specimen 1–3 of 218–395 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.91P1-3. Catch locality southern Tasmania. ID by RG. Specimen 4 of 381 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF54. Catch locality Disaster Bay, New South Wales, 80 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 9.531 × 10 –6 TL 3.149 g n = 18; Std Err Est = 0.266; R = 0.969; P<0.001; Fish length range = 172–599 mm TL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith medium/large ovate. Large ontogenic variation in marginal sculpturing and form of sulcus and colliculi. Dorsal margin rounded, lobed to crenate, notches in dorsal margin of larger specimens; ventral margin and posterior margin slightly rounded and irregular. Distal surface flat; proximal surface flat. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid, opening ostial to ostio-caudal. Ostium larger than cauda and shallower. Colliculum heteromorph. Crista superior well developed over cauda and neck; crista inferior well developed, ridge-like under ostium. Rostrum short, robust and rounded. Antirostrum smaller than rostrum in small specimens, but similar in size in larger specimens. Excisura absent, but shallow to deep notch present with acute angle. Dorsal area depression broad, shallow oval. Ventral area groove in larger specimens. Primordium central

Distribution and ecology New South Wales to Western Australia, and Tasmania; on sand and mud substrates; to 60 m depth; reaches 750 mm in length (May and Maxwell 1986, Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information None cited.

150

PERCIFORMES

a

b

c

Otoliths of Kathetostoma laeve from fish of 218 mm, 381 mm and 395 mm TL, figures a, b and c, respectively. Three otoliths have been included to illustrate changes with ontogeny.

151

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Leptoscopidae Species: Crapatalus munroi Common name: Pink sandfish Previous nomenclature: Crapatalus sp. in Last et al. 1983

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 75 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.95P41. Catch locality Bass Strait, off Stanley, Tasmania. ID by RG / CL.

Distribution and ecology Port Phillip Bay (Victoria), Bass Strait and Tasmania; burrows in soft sediment in shallow coastal bays and beaches; occurs through to depths of 18 m; reaches 120 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith small, oval. All margins entire. Notch in middle of ventral margin. Sulcus groove homosulcoid; opening mesial. Ostium and cauda poorly developed. Colliculum homomorph. Collum indistinct. Crista superior ridge-like above collum; crista inferior poorly developed. Rostrum, antirostrum and excisura absent. Dorsal area depression present as shallow elongate trough above length of crista superior. Ventral area groove present.

Predator–prey information None cited.

152

PERCIFORMES

Otolith of Crapatalus munroi from a fish of 75 mm TL. (Note: Some debris is present on the otolith surface.)

153

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Leptoscopidae Species: Lesueurina platycephala Common name: Flathead sandfish Previous nomenclature: Crapatalus arenarius

Morphometry Mass = 4.870 × 10 –7 TL 3.658 g n = 6; Std Err Est = 0.146; R = 0.974; P<0.001; Fish length range = 52–81 mm TL (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens of 56–64 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.94P8, P10 and P13. Catch locality south-west Bass Strait, off Stanley Tasmania. ID by RG.

Distribution and ecology Southern Australia from Cape Moreton (Queensland) to Geraldton (Western Australia) (Gomon et al. 1994), and Tasmania; found off exposed beaches and shallow sandy coasts with high turbulence, burying in runnels in the surf-zone; reaches 110 mm in length (Last et al. 1983).

Otolith description Otolith very small, ovate to rectangular. All margins entire. Sulcus groove poorly developed, pseudoarchaesulcoid to heterosulcoid; opening ostial to mesial. Ostium and cauda indistinct. Colliculum heteromorph and indistinct. Crista superior and crista inferior absent. Rostrum absent or small and pointed. Antirostrum absent to minute. Excisura absent or small and oblique. The size and form of the rostrum and associated features change with ontogeny, increasing in definition and size as the specimen size increases.

Predator–prey information None cited.

154

PERCIFORMES

a

b

Otoliths of Lesueurina platycephala from fish of 56 mm and 64 mm TL, figures a and b, respectively. Two otoliths have been included to illustrate changes with ontogeny. (Note: Some debris is present on the surface of otolith b.)

155

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Bovichthyidae Species: Pseudaphritis urvillii Common names: Congolli (freshwater flathead, sandy, tupong, marble fish) Previous nomenclature: Aphritis urvillii, Pseudaphritis bursinus

Morphometry SL = 38.43 OL0.92 mm n = 50; Std Err Est = 0.085; R = 0.96; Otolith length range = 1.4–5.15 mm (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens of 62–188 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.97P45, P62 and P89. Catch locality Margate, southern Tasmania. ID by RG.

Mass = 6.79 × 10 –6 SL 3.12 g n = 30; Std Err Est = 0.094; R = 1.00; Fish length range = 50–188 mm SL (TMAG)

Otolith description Otolith very small/small, ovate to fusiform as size increases. Large variation as the result of ontogeny. Dorsal margin gently lobed to intensely lobed with rounded projections; ventral margin entire. Sulcus groove homosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum homomorph. Collum narrow. Crista superior ridgelike and restricted to mid portion of sulcus; crista inferior extended and irregular. Rostrum as wide as it is long, and rounded. Antirostrum short and rounded to minute. Excisura shallow and oblique to notch-like and in larger specimens wider with a more acute angle. Dorsal area largely covered by shallow oval depression. Ventral area uniformly raised; fine ventral groove present.

Distribution and ecology South-eastern Australia from New South Wales to South Australia, and Tasmania; common in estuaries and lower river areas; rarely found in totally marine waters; reaches 360 mm in length (Last et al. 1983, Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information None cited.

156

PERCIFORMES

a

b

Otoliths of Pseudaphritis urvillii from fish of 62 mm and 188 mm SL, figures a and b, respectively. Two otoliths have been included to illustrate changes with ontogeny. (Note: Some debris is present on the surface of otolith a.)

157

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Clinidae Species: Cristiceps australis Common name: Southern crested weedfish

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 69 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.103P31. Catch locality Margate, southern Tasmania. ID by RG/RW.

Distribution and ecology Southern Queensland to Victoria and Tasmania, and south-western Western Australia; found in association with algae on rocky reefs or seagrass bays, to 1–2 m depth only; reaches 300 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith very small, generally discoid to ovate with a rostral projection. Dorsal margin and ventral margin entire. Sulcus groove homosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum homomorph. Collum broad and bridgelike. Crista superior poorly developed; crista inferior absent. Rostrum wider than it is long and curved gently. Antirostrum absent. Excisura extremely shallow and approaching 160°.

Predator–prey information Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of black-faced shag (Leucocarbo fuscescens) and pied cormorant (Phalacrocorax varius) (Marchant and Higgins 1990).

158

PERCIFORMES

Otolith of Cristiceps australis from a fish of 69 mm TL. (Notes: Some debris is present on the otolith surface. Scale bar used is 0.1 mm.)

159

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Clinidae Species: Heteroclinus perspicillatus Common names: Common weedfish Previous nomenclature: Cristiceps robustus, Neoblennius fasciatus

Morphometry Mass = 7.656 × 10 –6 TL 3.028 g n = 12; Std Err Est = 0.087; R = 0.998; P<0.001; Fish length range = 39-136 mm TL (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 43 and 119 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.109P4 and P10. Catch locality Margate, southern Tasmania. ID by LC.

Distribution and ecology Cape Conran (Victoria) to Spencer Gulf (South Australia), and Tasmania; associated with rocks, seagrasses and algae in tide pools and shallow sheltered coastal areas; reaches 200 mm in length (Last et al. 1983, Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith ovate. Dorsal margin and ventral margin entire. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum homomorph. Collum narrow and bridgelike. Crista superior rounded in smaller specimens and more angled over the collum and ostium in larger specimens; crista inferior rounded. Rostrum is wider than it is long in smaller specimens and gently curved dorsally. Antirostrum generally small and rounded. Excisura varies from open to deep with an increasingly acute angle as the size of the otolith increases.

Predator–prey information None cited.

160

PERCIFORMES

a

b

Otoliths of Heteroclinus perspicillatus from fish of 43 mm and 119 mm TL, figures a and b, respectively. Two otoliths have been included to illustrate changes with ontogeny. (Note: Some debris is present on the surface of both otoliths.)

161

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Blenniidae Species: Parablennius tasmanianus Common names: Tasmanian blenny (bully, horned blenny) Previous nomenclature: Blennius tasmaniensis

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 51 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.118P1. Catch locality Dunalley, Tasmania. ID by LC.

Morphometry Mass = 4.506 × 10 –6 TL 3.26 g n = 49; Std Err Est = 0.09; R = 0.996; P<0.001; Fish length range = 35–134 mm TL (TMAG)

Otolith description Otolith very small, ovate to triangular. Dorsal margin entire; ventral margin entire with gentle undulations. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Cauda approaches ventral margin. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum distinct and narrow with deep ostium and cauda. Crista superior indistinct; crista inferior ridgelike. Rostrum as wide as it is long and rounded to pointed at end. Antirostrum small and rounded. Excisura shallow; angle extremely wide.

Distribution and ecology Southern Australia from New South Wales to South Australia, and Tasmania; common in shallow waters near rock pools and the tide mark; reported to reach 130 mm in length (Last et al. 1983) although this was exceeded in the current guide (max. 134 mm TL). Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Parablennius tasmanianus from a fish of 51 mm TL. (Note: Some debris is present on the otolith surface.)

162

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Callionymidae Species: Foetorepus calauropomus Common names: Common stinkfish (dragonet, hooky) Previous nomenclature: Synchiropus calauropomus

Morphometry (Note: Data includes juvenile and adult specimens.) TL = 258.526 OW 0.247 mm n = 10; Std Err Est = 0.063; R = 0.247; P<0.521 Otolith weight range = 4.4–7.5 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 180 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF47. Catch locality Merimbula, Victoria, 45 m depth. ID by DMF. Otolith description Otolith small, rounded triangular. Dorsal margin raised and lobed/irregular; ventral margin slightly rounded and irregular; posterior margin sharply rounded and entire. Distal surface slightly convex; proximal surface flat to convex. Sulcus groove medium, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum absent. Crista well developed above and below cauda. Rostrum narrow elongate and pointed. Antirostrum small broad and bluntly rounded. Excisura moderate; notch shallow; angle acute. Dorsal area depression elongate oval above length of crista superior. Ventral area groove present. Primordium lateral.

Mass = 4.174 × 10 –5 TL 2.675 g n = 148; Std Err Est = 0.197; R = 0.945; P<0.001; Fish length range = 52–329 mm TL (CMAR) Distribution and ecology Queensland to Western Australia, and Tasmania; also New Guinea (Last et al. 1983) and New Zealand (Kuiter 1993); on sandy and muddy bottom; 1–100 m depth (Kuiter 1993); reaches 350 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information Known prey of butterfly gurnard (Lepidotrigla vanessa) (Bax and Williams 2000).

Otolith of Foetorepus calauropomus from a fish of 180 mm TL

163

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Gobiidae Species: Afurcagobius tamarensis Common name: Tamar goby Previous nomenclature: Gobius tamarensis, Gobius tasmanicus, Favonigobius tamarensis

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 56 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.123P42. Catch locality Margate, southern Tasmania. ID by RG.

Distribution and ecology Southern Australia from New South Wales to southwestern Western Australia, and Tasmania; estuaries and lower river reaches, particularly over mud; reaches 110 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith square with slight hour-glass shape. Dorsal margin and ventral margin entire. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening mesial. Ostium and cauda positioned in central area of otolith. Colliculum difficult to distinguish. Collum absent. Crista superior and inferior ridge-like. Rostrum, antirostrum and excisura absent. Pseudo-rostrum sometimes present and very small. Pseudo-excisura wide with indentations. Dorsal area raised; broad dorsal groove present.

Predator–prey information Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) and little black cormorant (Phalacrocorax sulcirostris) (Marchant and Higgins 1990).

Otolith of Afurcagobius tamarensis from a fish of 56 mm TL. (Note: Some debris is present on the otolith surface.)

164

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Gobiidae Species: Nesogobius pulchellus Common names: Sailfin goby (Castelnau’s goby) Previous nomenclature: Gobius pulchellus

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 53 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.125P. Catch locality unknown. ID by IFS.

Morphometry No data are available. Distribution and ecology Southern Australia from Sydney (New South Wales) to Perth (Western Australia), and Tasmania; sandy areas associated with seagrass in bays and estuaries from 2 m to 4 m depth; reaches 60 mm in length (Last et al. 1983, Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith very small, square. All margins entire to slightly irregular. Sulcus groove homosulcoid; opening mesial. Colliculum homomorph. Collum absent or indistinct. Crista superior broad, irregular and not well developed; crista inferior poorly developed and irregular. Rostrum, antirostrum and excisura absent. Large variations may occur with ontogeny. Dorsal area and ventral area sunken and sculptured.

Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Nesogobius pulchellus from a fish of 53 mm TL. (Note: Some debris is present on the otolith surface.)

165

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Gobiidae Species: Nesogobius sp.1 (in Last et al. 1983) Common name: Girdled goby

Morphometry SL = 28.39 OL0.97 mm n = 65; Std Err Est = 0.090; R = 0.92; Otolith length range = 1.3–3.1 mm (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens of 32–74 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.126P54, P52 and P59. Catch locality Cremorne, southern Tasmania. ID by RG / CL.

Mass = 3.06 × 10 –6 SL 3.44 g n = 65; Std Err Est = 0.12; R = 0.99; Fish length range = 33–75 mm SL (TMAG)

Otolith description Otolith discoid with rostral and pseudo-rostral projections. Dorsal margin entire; ventral margin entire in small specimens to lobed in larger. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening mesial to ostial. Colliculum heteromorph and deep. Collum slight, separating ostium and cauda. Crista superior distinct and irregular; crista inferior ridge-like. Rostrum broad, very short and rounded when present. Antirostrum, if present, smaller than rostrum. Pseudo-rostrum and pseudo-antirostrum smaller than rostrum and antirostrum, respectively. Excisura shallow with near 180° angle. Pseudo-excisura shallow to indistinct with near 180° angle.

Distribution and ecology Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania; common in areas of sheltered sand flats and estuaries, from intertidal to 2–3 m depth; reaches 90 mm in length (Last et al. 1983, Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information None cited.

166

PERCIFORMES

a

b

Otoliths of Nesogobius sp.1 from fish of 67 mm and 74 mm SL, figures a and b, respectively. Two otoliths have been included to illustrate changes with ontogeny. (Note: Some debris is present on the surface of otolith a.)

167

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Gobiidae Species: Nesogobius sp.2 (in Last et al. 1983) Common name: Twin-barred goby Previous nomenclature: Nesogobius sp. 3 in Gomon et al. 1984 Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 43 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.127P61. Catch locality unknown. ID by LC.

Distribution and ecology South-eastern Australia from Merimbula (New South Wales) to Kangaroo Island (South Australia), and Tasmania (Gomon et al. 1984); in seagrass and sand patches around rocky reefs to depths of 8 m; reaches 45 mm in length (Last et al. 1983).

Otolith description Otolith very small, discoid. All margins entire. Sulcus archaesulcoid. Ostium and cauda difficult to distinguish. Colliculum indistinct. Collum broad. Crista superior and crista inferior poorly developed. Rostrum broad, extremely short and rounded. Antirostrum minute. Excisura very shallow; angle near 180°. Dorsal area depression and ventral area trough present.

Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Nesogobius sp.2 from a fish of 43 mm TL. (Note: Some debris is present on the otolith surface.)

168

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Gempylidae Species: Rexea solandri Common names: Gemfish (hake, king barracouta, kingfish, silver/southern kingfish)

Morphometry FL = 62.677 OW 0.461 mm n = 9; Std Err Est = 0.193; R = 0.774; P<0.014 Otolith weight range = 43.0–183.0 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 378 mm FL and 436 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF23 and 30.134P2 (otolith provided by DSF (CR 15/12/84), respectively. Catch locality Point Hicks, Victoria, at 200 m depth, and southern Tasmania, unknown depth. ID by DMF and DSF.

Mass = 8.444 × 10 –6 FL 2.964 g n = 20; Std Err Est = 0.104; R = 0.986; P<0.001; Fish length range = 308–810 mm FL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith medium to large, elliptic to ovate. Dorsal margin sinuate to crenate; ventral margin crenate to dentate; posterior margin rounded with deeply lobed/ irregular indentations. Sulcus groove shallow and elongate, pseudo-archaesulcoid; opening ostial to ostio-caudal. Colliculum homomorph and poorly formed. Collum absent. Crista superior ridge-like; crista inferior robust and ridge-like extending onto rostrum. Rostrum elongate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum short and rounded. Excisura shallow; angle wide. Dorsal area depression as wide, shallow trough above crista superior. Ventral area depression also following crista inferior, as wide shallow trough, reaching to rostrum.

Distribution and ecology New South Wales to Western Australia, and Tasmania (Last et al. 1983) and Cape Moreton (Queensland) (Kailola et al. 1993); occurs in 100–800 m depths (Nakamura and Parin 1993) with winter pre-spawning schools migrating along the continental slope at ~400 m depth (May and Maxwell 1986); reaches 1350 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information Known prey of little penguin (Eudyptula minor) (Chiaradia et al. 2003) and Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Gales and Pemberton 1994).

Otolith of Rexea solandri from a fish of 436 mm TL

169

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Gempylidae Species: Thyrsites atun Common names: Barracouta (couta, snoek) Previous nomenclature: Leionura atun, Scomber atun

Distribution and ecology Moreton Bay (Queensland) to Shark Bay (Western Australia) (Tuma 1994), and Tasmania (Last et al. 1983); also New Zealand, South America and South Africa; mesopelagic in cold waters of the southern hemisphere (Smale et al. 1995), although can be found in subtropical waters; usually in surface waters to 550 m depth (Kailola et al. 1993); exhibits schooling behaviour (Gomon et al. 1994); reaches 1500 mm in length (Nakamura and Parin 1993) (reported to 2000 mm in length by Smale et al. 1995).

Material Description based on otoliths of four specimens. Specimens 1–3 of 173–330 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.1351-1352, and 30.1355. Catch locality Storm Bay, Tasmania at 25 m depth. ID by RG. Specimen 4 of 840 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF52–53. Catch locality Gabo Island, Victoria, at 250 m depth. ID by DMF. Otolith description Otolith large, elliptic/fusiform. Dorsal margin sinuate to lobed/irregular; ventral margin rounded and sinuate/crenate to irregular; posterior margin notched and sharply rounded and irregular. Distal surface flat or slightly concave; proximal surface flat or slightly convex. Sulcus groove shallow, pseudo-archaesulcoid; opening ostial to ostio-caudal. Notch in posterior margin gives an impression of an ostio-caudal sulcus. Colliculum heteromorph, indistinct. Collum absent. Crista superior poorly developed along entire sulcus; crista inferior poorly developed under cauda only. Rostrum broad, elongate, sharply rounded. Antirostrum small, rounded. Pseudo-rostrum broad, moderate, sharply rounded. Excisura. moderate; notch shallow; angle varying acute to wide.

Predator–prey information Known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Gales and Pemberton 1994, Hume et al. 2004), New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsterii) (Lake 1997, Fea et al. 1999), little penguin (Eudyptula minor) (Gales and Pemberton 1990), shy albatross (Thalassarche cauta) (Hedd et al. 2001), short-tailed shearwater (Puffinus tenuirostris) (Montague et al. 1984) and crested tern (Sterna bergii) (Chiaradia et al. 2002).

Morphometry (Note: Data includes juvenile and adult specimens.) FL = 226.331 OW 0.336 mm n = 7; Std Err Est = 0.036; R = 0.828; P<0.021 Otolith weight range = 50.0–77.0 mg (CMAR) FL = 22.06 OL1.42 mm n = 25; Std Err Est = 0.073; R = 0.97; Otolith length range = 4.2–13.5 mm (CMAR) Mass = 2.33 X 10 –6FL3.10 g n = 54; Std Err Est = 0.088; R = 1.00; Fish length range = 108–1015 mm FL (TMAG)

170

PERCIFORMES

a

b

Otolith of Thyrsites atun from fish of 330 mm and 840 mm FL, figures a and b, respectively. Two otoliths have been included to illustrate changes with otogeny.

171

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Trichiuridae Species: Lepidopus caudatus Common name: Frostfish Previous nomenclature: Lepidopus lex, Trichiurus caudatus

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 724 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF21. Catch locality Disaster Bay, New South Wales, 25 m depth. ID by DMF.

Distribution and ecology New South Wales to Western Australia, and Tasmania; also New Zealand (Gomon et al. 1994), Mediterranean and eastern Atlantic to South Africa (Smale et al. 1995); to 400 m depth, occasionally seen in shallows or stranded ashore (Gomon et al. 1994); reaches 2000 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith medium, oblong to fusiform. Dorsal margin rounded and irregular; ventral margin slightly rounded and entire to mildly crenate; posterior margin bluntly rounded. Distal surface concave; proximal surface slightly convex. Sulcus groove shallow, pseudo-archaesulcoid; opening ostial, but may appear mesial. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum absent. Crista superior and crista inferior poorly developed at ostium, but low ridge-like at neck and cauda. Rostrum moderate and tapered to pointed. Antirostrum small and rounded. Excisura wide; notch shallow; angle wide.

Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Lepidopus caudatus from a fish of 724 mm TL

172

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Scombridae Species: Scomber australasicus Common name: Blue mackerel

Morphometry FL = 273.964 OW 0.126 mm n = 7; Std Err Est = 0.035; R = 0.876; P<0.004 Otolith weight range = 1.8–7.5 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 230 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF46. Catch locality Disaster Bay, Victoria, 30 m depth. ID by DMF.

Mass = 4.637 × 10 –7 FL 3.588 g n = 48; Std Err Est = 0.215; R = 0.976; P<0.001; Fish length range = 169–373 mm FL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith small, rectangular. Dorsal margin sunken and irregular; ventral margin approximately straight and mildly irregular; posterior margin slightly rounded and slightly lobed to crenate. Distal surface flat to concave; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove medium, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph, poorly defined. Collum absent. Crista superior ridge-like; crista inferior well developed to ridge-like but poorly developed at anterior end of ostium. Rostrum small and rounded. Antirostrum very small and pointed. Excisura wide; notch shallow; angle wide. Primordium lateral.

Distribution and ecology Southern Queensland to Western Australia, and Tasmania; also New Zealand, China, Japan and Hawaii (Last et al. 1983); to 200 m depth (May and Maxwell 1986); juveniles in coastal bays (Hutch and Swain 1986); exhibit surface schooling behaviour by size groups (Collette and Nauen 1983); reaches 650 mm in length (Hutch and Swain 1986). Predator–prey information Known prey of school shark (Galaeorhinus galeus), speckled stargazer (Kathetostoma canaster), tiger flathead (Neoplatycephalus richardsoni) (CMAR unpublished data), bottlenose and common dolphins (Tursiops truncatus and Delphinus delphis) (Kemper and Gibbs 2002) and Caspian tern (Sterna caspia) (Higgins and Davies 1996).

Otolith of Scomber australasicus from a fish of 230 mm FL

173

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Centrolophidae Species: Seriolella brama Common names: Blue warehou (warehou, common warehou, portland hake, sea bream, snotgall trevally, snotty)

Distribution and ecology South-eastern Australia from New South Wales to South Australia, and Tasmania (Last et al. 1983); also New Zealand; inshore waters 50–400 m depth (Kailola et al. 1993); suggested winter–spring migration to deeper waters (Smith 1994c); juveniles pelagic, sometimes entering estuaries (May and Maxwell 1986) and often associated with mauve-stinger jellyfish; schooling exhibited by smaller individuals (Hutch and Swain 1986); reaches 900 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994).

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens. Specimens 1–2 of 139–152 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.151P8 and P22 (otolith provided by DSF (W8 and W22)). Catch locality unknown. ID by DSF. Specimen 3 of 405 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF34–35. Catch locality Merimbula, New South Wales, at 150 m depth. ID by DMF. Otolith description Otolith large, oblong to ovate. Dorsal margin rounded and crenate to sinuate; ventral margin slightly rounded and crenate to dentate, posterior margin sharply rounded and irregular. Distal surface flat to concave; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove moderate, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium located on rostrum. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior slightly raised and ridge-like; crista inferior well developed along neck and cauda, less developed along ostium and onto rostrum. Rostrum broad and elongate, pointed to irregular. Antirostrum small, broad and rounded to pointed. Excisura wide; notch moderate to very deep angle acute. Dorsal area depression small, shallow oval with radial ridges.

Predator–prey information Known prey of little penguin (Eudyptula minor) (Gales and Pemberton 1990, Chiaradia et al. 2003) and Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Gales and Pemberton 1994, Hume et al. 2004).

Morphometry (Note: Data includes juvenile and adult specimens.) FL = 248.389 OW 0.149 mm n = 9; Std Err Est = 0.016; R = 0.724; P<0.027 Otolith weight range = 80.0–112.0 mg (CMAR) FL = 20.38 OL1.14 mm n = 45; Std Err Est = 0.043; R = 0.97; Otolith length range = 4.1–7.5 mm (TMAG) Mass = 1.642 × 10 –5 FL 3.033 g n = 180; Std Err Est = 0.134; R = 0.996; P<0.001 Fish length range = 83–518 mm FL (TMAG + CMAR)

174

PERCIFORMES

Otolith of Seriolella brama from a fish of 405 mm FL

175

PERCIFORMES

Order: PERCIFORMES Family: Centrolophidae Species: Seriolella punctata Common names: Silver warehou (spotted trevally, mackerel trevally) Previous nomenclature: Seriolella bilineata, Seriolella maculate

Morphometry FL = 250.385 OW 0.084 mm n = 8; Std Err Est = 0.022; R = 0.8; P<0.017 Otolith weight range = 47.0–85.0 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 330 mm and 375 mm FL. Otolith catalogue reference 30.153P1 and DMF48, respectively. Catch locality southern Tasmania; and Point Hicks, Victoria, at 140 m depth. ID by RG/RL and DMF.

Mass = 3.892 × 10 –5 FL 2.857 g n = 276; Std Err Est = 0.141; R = 0.972; P<0.001; Fish length range = 161–525 mm FL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith large, oblong/ovate to fusiform. Dorsal margin irregular to dentate with acute angled junction to posterior margin; ventral margin straight and crenate to irregular; posterior margin rounded and irregular. Distal surface flat to irregular; proximal surface convex. Sulcus groove deep, heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum absent or low. Crista superior and crista inferior ridgelike, but decreasing to poorly developed at extremes. Rostrum moderate, rounded and irregular. Antirostrum minute. Excisura wide; notch shallow; angle acute. Dorsal area present as a sunken region adjacent to sulcus, with slight radial ridges.

Distribution and ecology South-eastern Australia from New South Wales to South Australia, and Tasmania (Last et al. 1983); also New Zealand and South America; offshore pelagic to 650 m depth (Gomon et al. 1994); adults exhibit schooling behaviour with a suggested winter–spring migration to deeper waters; juveniles migrating inshore in autumn and spring (Smith 1994a), sometimes entering bays and often associated with jellyfish (May and Maxwell 1986); reaches 700 mm in length (Tuma 1994). Predator–prey information Known prey of little penguin (Eudyptula minor) (Gales and Pemberton 1990, Chiaradia et al. 2003).

Otolith of Seriolella punctata from a fish of 375 mm FL

176

PLEURONECTIFORMES

Order: PLEURONECTIFORMES Family: Bothidae Species: Arnoglossus andrewsi Common name: Andrew’s flounder

Morphometry Mass = 9.431 × 10 –7 TL 3.453 g n = 5; Std Err Est = 0.085; R = 0.993; P<0.001; Fish length range = 100–155 mm TL (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens of 107–155 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 32.1P1, P2 and P5. Catch locality southwest Bass Strait, off Stanley, Tasmania. ID by RG/CL.

Distribution and ecology Tasmania; common in Bass Strait and sheltered bays of eastern Tasmania on spongy and weedy bottoms between 10 and 15 m depth; reaches 230 mm in length (Last et al. 1983).

Otolith description Otolith ovate to near discoid. Dorsal margin and ventral margin entire; posterior margin sometimes with shallow indentations. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium slightly larger than cauda. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum narrow but distinct. Crista superior rounded and poorly formed; crista inferior rounded and poorly formed extending onto rostrum. Rostrum broad and rounded, stout in appearance. Antirostrum absent. Excisura shallow; angle wide.

Predator–prey information Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Hume et al. 2004).

Otolith of Arnoglossus andrewsi from a fish of 107 mm TL. (Note: Some debris is present on the otolith surface.)

177

PLEURONECTIFORMES

Order: PLEURONECTIFORMES Family: Bothidae Species: Arnoglossus muelleri Common name: Mueller’s flounder Previous nomenclature: Arnoglossus armstrongi

Morphometry TL 74 mm = fish weight 3.185 g

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 74 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 32.4P1. Catch locality southern Tasmania. ID by RG / CL.

Distribution and ecology Confined to southern coast of Australia from eastern Bass Strait to Albany (Western Australia); occurs in depth to 200 m; reaches 250 mm in length (Last et al. 1983, Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith oval to ovate. Dorsal margin and ventral margin entire. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial to almost mesial. Colliculum heteromoph. Collum low or absent. Crista superior prominent and rounded, extending midway above ostium; crista inferior ridge-like extending towards rostrum. Rostrum stout, short (<10% of total length) and gently curved. Antirostrum absent. Excisura very shallow; angle oblique. Dorsal area shallow depression. Ventral area groove almost joined posteriorly to dorsal depression, forming shallow horse-shoe-shaped depression.

Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Arnoglossus muelleri from a fish of 74 mm TL. (Note: Some debris is present on the otolith surface.)

178

PLEURONECTIFORMES

Order: PLEURONECTIFORMES Family: Bothidae Species: Lophonectes gallus Common name: Crested flounder

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 94 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 32.5P41. Catch locality Bass Strait, off Stanley, Tasmania. ID by RG / CL.

Distribution and ecology South-eastern Australian coast from southern Queensland to South Australia, and Tasmania; muddy bottom in 20–240 m depths; reaches 200 mm in length (Last et al. 1983, Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith oval to ovate. Dorsal margin and ventral margin entire; posterior margin gently lobed. Sulcus groove ostial and heterosulcoid. Ostium larger than cauda. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum constricted. Crista superior well developed and irregular; crista inferior ridge-like. Rostrum short and stout, rounded. Antirostrum absent. Excisura absent or extremely shallow; angle oblique. Dorsal area and ventral area depression may be joined, forming horse-shoe depression.

Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Lophonectes gallus from a fish of 94 mm TL

179

PLEURONECTIFORMES

Order: PLEURONECTIFORMES Family: Pleuronectidae Species: Ammotretis rostratus Common name: Longsnout flounder

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens of 23–263 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 32.9P1, P2 and P4. Catch locality Margate, southern Tasmania. ID by RG/CL.

Morphometry (Note: Data includes juvenile and adult specimens.) Mass = 1.082 × 10 –5 TL 3.015 g n = 15; Std Err Est = 0.077; R = 0.999; P<0.001; Fish length range = 23–263 mm TL (TMAG)

Otolith description Otolith oval to discoid. Features may change with ontogeny. In smaller specimens all margins entire; in larger specimens dorsal margin lobed to dentate, ventral margin irregular. Sulcus groove near homosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium slightly larger than cauda. Colliculum heteromorph. Collum constricted. Crista superior poorly developed and rounded; crista inferior ridge-like and irregular. Rostrum short and rounded in small specimens and more elongate in larger specimens. Antirostrum absent or gently rounded and small. Excisura shallow and wide angled in small specimens and deep with an acute angle in larger specimens.

Distribution and ecology Southern Australia from Sydney (New South Wales) to south-west corner of Western Australia, and Tasmania; occurs over sandy and muddy bottom of bays and offshore areas to 80 m depth; juveniles abundant in shallow bays and estuaries; reaches 340 mm in length (Last et al. 1983, Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Hume et al. 2004), Caspian tern (Sterna caspia) and fairy tern (Sterna nereis) (Higgins and Davies 1996).

180

PLEURONECTIFORMES

a

b

Otoliths of Ammotretis rostratus from fish of 96 mm and 263 mm TL, figures a and b, respectively. Two otoliths have been included to illustrate changes with ontogeny.

181

PLEURONECTIFORMES

Order: PLEURONECTIFORMES Family: Pleuronectidae Species: Azygopus pinnifasciatus Common names: Band-fin flounder (spotted flounder)

Morphometry SL = 60.764 OL0.79 mm n = 24; Std Err Est = 0.15; R = 0.663; Otolith length range = 1.1–2.0 mm (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 110 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference BG18. Catch locality Maria Island, Tasmania. Depth unknown. ID by BG.

Mass = 5.41 × 10 –5 SL2.691 g n = 13; Std Err Est = 0.045; R = 0.997; Fish length range = 62–110 mm SL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith very small, oval. Dorsal margin and ventral margin rounded, entire. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium smaller than cauda. Colliculum heteromorph; anterior colliculum well defined and extends onto rostrum; posterior colliculum poorly developed. Collum absent. Crista superior well defined and ridge-like and split into anterior and posterior sections over the ostium and cauda; crista inferior prominent and ridge-like and extending onto the rostrum. Rostrum elongate and robust, rounded. Antirostrum small and rounded. Excisura present; angle acute, between 60° and 80°. Dorsal area and ventral area depression joined to form shallow horseshoe shape around sulcus, extending from rostrum to anti-rostrum.

Distribution and ecology Central New South Wales to Western Australia, and Tasmania; also New Zealand; sand-dwelling deepwater species commonly caught in Great Australian Bight in 110–820 m depth; reaches 200 mm in length (Last et al. 1983, Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information None cited.

182

PLEURONECTIFORMES

Otolith of Azygopus pinnifasciatus from a fish of 110 mm SL

183

PLEURONECTIFORMES

Order: PLEURONECTIFORMES Family: Pleuronectidae Species: Rhombosolea tapirina Common name: Greenback flounder Previous nomenclature: Rhombosolea monopus

Morphometry Mass = 7.873 × 10 –6 TL 3.093 g n = 57; Std Err Est = 0.086; R = 0.999; P<0.001; Fish length range = 23–295 mm TL (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of four specimens of 29189 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 32.11P27, P40, P66 and P71. Catch locality D’Entrecasteaux Channel, Tasmania. ID by RG.

Distribution and ecology Southern New South Wales to eastern Western Australia, and Tasmania; also New Zealand; found in bays and inshore areas over sandy or muddy bottom, to 100 m depth; reaches 450 mm in length (Last et al. 1983, Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith small, discoid to oval. Dorsal margin entire and lobed in smaller specimens, and lobed to sinuate in larger specimens; ventral margin irregularly lobed. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid; opening ostial. Ostium up to twice as large as cauda. Colliculum heteromorph. In some specimens the lack of a distinct excisura makes the sulcus appear to be mesial. Collum constricted to minute. Crista superior ridge-like, but can be indistinct over ostium; crista inferior ridge-like and irregular. Rostrum robust, short with rounded end to square in some larger specimens. Antirostrum usually absent. Excisura shallow with a wide angle or absent, but rectangular with acute angle in some larger specimens. Dorsal area and ventral area depression join to form a well-defined horseshoe-shaped around sulcus. Note: Extreme variation may exist between left and right otoliths in some specimens.

Predator–prey information Known prey of great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) (Marchant and Higgins 1990).

184

PLEURONECTIFORMES

a

b

Otoliths of Rhombosolea tapirina from fish of 70 mm and 189 mm TL, figures a and b, respectively. Two otoliths have been included to illustrate changes with ontogeny.

185

PLEURONECTIFORMES

Order: PLEURONECTIFORMES Family: Soleidae Species: Zebrias scalaris Common name: Manyband sole Previous nomenclature: Brachirus fasciatus, Haplozebrias fasciatus, Zebrias fasciatus

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 175 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 32.13P91. Catch locality south-west Bass Strait, off Stanley, Tasmania. ID by RG.

Distribution and ecology Eastern Australia from Queensland to Victoria, and Tasmania; reaches 220 mm in length (Last et al. 1983).

Otolith description Otolith very small, essentially discoid with two straight margins, giving a square appearance. All margins entire to slightly irregular. Sulcus groove homosulcoid; opening mesial. Ostium and cauda same size. Colliculum absent. Collum absent. Crista superior and crista inferior gently rounded. Otolith resembles a classic volcano in shape, with a central crater. Rostrum, antirostrum and excisura absent. Dorsal area and ventral area depression join to form a continuous trough around sulcus.

Predator–prey information None cited.

186

PLEURONECTIFORMES

Otolith of Zebrias scalaris from a fish of 175 mm TL

187

TETRAODONTIFORMES

Order: TETRAODONTIFORMES Family: Monacanthidae Species: Acanthaluteres spilomelanurus Common names: Bridled leatherjacket (golden-eyed leatherjacket, small brown leatherjacket) Previous nomenclature: Balistes spilomelanurus

Morphometry (Note: Data includes juvenile and adult specimens.) SL = 67.90 OL 1.80 mm n = 44; Std Err Est = 0.15; R = 0.95 Otolith length range = 0.6–1.25 mm (TMAG)

Material Description based on otoliths of three specimens of 25–70 mm SL. Otolith catalogue reference 33.1P4, 33.1P25 and 33.1P48. Catch locality Southern Tasmania. ID by GF. Otolith description Otolith small, discoid with anterior and posterior projections. All margins entire, tending towards lobed in larger otoliths. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid with ostium larger than cauda and both becoming deeper as otolith size increases; opening ostio-caudal. Colliculum poorly developed, collum distinct and broad. Crista superior poorly developed; crista inferior well formed and broad, extending onto rostrum and pseudo-rostrum. Rostrum broad and rounded, but poorly developed in smaller otoliths. Antirostrum small and rounded distally, although absent in smaller otoliths. Pseudo-rostrum similar in size to rostrum where developed. Excisura wide; notch deep; angle wide. Dorsal area reduced. Ventral area with slightly sculptured groove following line of ventral margin, bordered by a robust ridge above and distinct depressions anteriorly and posteriorly. Note: Considerable variation exists in otolith morphology with growth for this species. Larger individuals develop otoliths greater in height than length, with both anterior and posterior rostral-like projections.

Mass = 4.43 × 10 –5 SL 2.80 g n = 45; Std Err Est = 0.097; R = 0.99 Fish length range = 22–95 mm SL (TMAG) Distribution and ecology Confined to southern Australia from Sydney (New South Wales) to Freemantle (Western Australia), and Tasmania; exhibits schooling behaviour in seagrass beds of estuaries and coastal embayments; reaches 140 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information Known prey of crested tern (Sterna bergii) (Harris and Last 1982). Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Gales and Pemberton 1994, Hume et al. 2004), New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsterii) (Lake 1997), bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) (Gales et al. 1992), little penguin (Eudyptula minor) (Gales and Pemberton 1990), short-tailed shearwater (Puffinus tenuirostris) (Montague et al. 1984), blackfaced shag (Leucocarbo fuscescens), pied cormorant (Phalacrocorax varius) and white-bellied sea eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster) (Marchant and Higgins 1990).

188

TETRAODONTIFORMES

a

b

Otoliths of Acanthaluteres spilomelanurus from fish of 25 mm and 54 mm SL, figures a and b, respectively. Two otoliths have been included to illustrate changes with ontogeny. (Notes: Some debris is present on the surface of otolith a. Scale bar used is 0.1 mm.)

189

TETRAODONTIFORMES

Order: TETRAODONTIFORMES Family: Monacanthidae Species: Acanthaluteres vittiger Common names: Toothbrush leatherjacket (palebrown leatherjacket) Previous nomenclature: Monacanthus vittiger, Penicipelta vittiger

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 220 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 33.10P. Catch locality Tasmania. ID by GF.

pseudo-excisura wide; notch deep; angle wide. Dorsal area reduced. Ventral area groove deep; radial sculpturing present. Morphometry No data are available.

Otolith description Otolith very small, tall discoid with anterior and posterior projections. Dorsal margin entire; ventral margin irregular and lobed. Sulcus groove homosulcoid; opening ostia-caudal, ostium and cauda deep. Colliculum absent. Collum distinct. Crista superior present over ostium and cauda and form ventro-lateral margin of dorsal area; crista inferior well formed, rounded and extending onto rostrum and pseudo-rostrum. Rostrum short and rounded distally. Antirostrum absent or extremely small. Pseudo-rostrum slender and shorter than; pseudo-antirostrum absent. Excisura and

Distribution and ecology Confined to southern Australia from Coffs Harbour (New South Wales) to Jurien Bay (Western Australia) and Tasmania; coastal reefs, particularly along Victorian and Tasmanian coasts; young fish often found in seagrass beds or under floating seaweed; reaches 140 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information Known prey of crested tern (Sterna bergii) (Harris and Last 1982).

Otolith of Acanthaluteres vittiger from a fish of 220 mm TL. (Note: Some debris is present on the otolith surface.)

190

TETRAODONTIFORMES

Order: TETRAODONTIFORMES Family: Monacanthidae Species: Brachaluteres jacksonianus Common name: Southern pygmy leatherjacket Previous nomenclature: Balistes jacksonianus, Brachaluteres trossulus, Brachaluteres wolferi

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 34 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 33.2P74. Catch locality Tasmania. ID by GF.

excisura wide; notch moderate; angle wide. Dorsal area and ventral area reduced as a result of welldefined cristae. Ventral area with deep depression beneath crista inferior.

Otolith description Otolith very small, tall discoid with anterior and posterior projections. All margins entire. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid with ostium larger than cauda; opening ostio-caudal. Colliculum heteromorph, well developed, Collum distinct. Crista superior split into posterior and anterior sections over ostium and cauda; crista inferior well formed and extending onto rostrum and pseudo-rostrum. Rostrum broad and rounded. Antirostrum absent. Pseudo-rostrum similar in size to rostrum in larger otoliths, but absent in small otoliths; pseudo-antirostrum absent. Excisura and pseudo-

Morphometry No data are available. Distribution and ecology Confined to southern Australia from Moreton Bay (Queensland) to Lancelin (Western Australia) and Tasmania; in seagrass beds and estuaries as well as coastal reefs; shallow inshore waters; reaches 90 mm in length (Gomon et al. 1994). Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Brachaluteres jacksonianus from a fish of 34 mm TL

191

TETRAODONTIFORMES

Order: TETRAODONTIFORMES Family: Monacanthidae Species: Meuschenia freycineti Common names: Sixspine leatherjacket (Freycinets leatherjacket, grey leatherjacket, orange-spotted leatherjacket) Previous nomenclature: Balistes freycinetti, Meuschenia skottowei, Navodon multiradiatus

Morphometry TL = 396.628 OW 0.156 mm n = 10; Std Err Est = 0.038; R = 0.788; P<0.012 Otolith weight range = 0.8–1.8 mg (CMAR) Fish length range = 385–445 mm TL (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 331 mm and 360 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 33.7P61 and DMF40, respectively. Catch locality unknown; and Bermagui, New South Wales, at 25 m depth. ID by RG and DMF.

Distribution and ecology New South Wales to southern Western Australia, and Tasmania; juveniles in estuaries and shallow bays and common in seagrass beds of coastal reefs; adults also occur in areas of rocky reefs and seagrass beds to 100 m depth (Hutch and Swain 1986, May and Maxwell 1986); reaches 600 mm in length.

Otolith description Otolith very small, hour-glass shaped. Dorsal margin flat, but angled and entire/irregular; ventral margin rounded and irregular; posterior margin deeply notched and irregular. Distal surface flat, proximal surface irregular. Sulcus groove deep, homosulcoid; opening ostio-caudal. Colliculum homomorph; two colliculi indistinct. Collum distinct, bridge-like. Crista superior poorly developed over ostium and cauda and absent at neck; crista inferior ridge-like and broad, extending onto rostrum and pseudo-rostrum. Rostrum broad notched and sharply rounded. Antirostrum small broad and sharply rounded. Excisura wide; notch deep; angle acute. Dorsal area reduced. Ventral area depression deep, following line of crista inferior.

Predator–prey information Known prey of little penguin (Eudyptula minor) (Gales and Pemberton 1990).

192

TETRAODONTIFORMES

Otolith of Meuschenia freycineti from a fish of 360 mm TL

193

TETRAODONTIFORMES

Order: TETRAODONTIFORMES Family: Monacanthidae Species: Meuschenia scaber Common name: Velvet leatherjacket Previous nomenclature: Balistes scaber, Parika scaber

Morphometry TL = 250.385 OW 0.084 mm n = 8; Std Err Est = 0.022; R = 0.8; P<0.017 Otolith weight range = 0.8–1.9 mg (CMAR)

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of unknown TL. Otolith catalogue reference SD1032/5. Catch locality unknown. ID by SD. Otolith description Otolith very small, hour-glass shaped. Dorsal margin flat and slightly irregular; ventral margin notched/ slightly rounded and irregular; posterior margin deeply notched and irregular. Distal surface flat; proximal surface irregular. Sulcus groove deep, homosulcoid; opening ostio-caudal. Colliculum homomorph; two colliculi. Collum bridge-like. Crista superior ridge-like and diagonal over ostium and cauda, but absent at neck; crista inferior ridge-like and broad, extending onto rostrum and pseudo-rostrum. Rostrum broad blunt and notched. Antirostrum small broad and rounded. Excisura wide; notch deep; angle acute. Dorsal area reduced. Ventral area depression deep, following line of crista inferior. Ventral groove also distinct.

Mass = 5.114 × 10 –5 TL 2.79 g n = 108; Std Err Est = 0.14; R = 0.945; P<0.001; Fish length range = 141–278 mm TL (CMAR) Distribution and ecology Confined to Southern Australia from New South Wales to southern Western Australia, and Tasmania; also New Zealand (Last et al. 1983); exhibits schooling behaviour; occurs in 20–200 m depth (Kuiter 1993); reaches 310 mm in length (May and Maxwell 1986). Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Meuschenia scaber from a fish of unknown TL

194

TETRAODONTIFORMES

Order: TETRAODONTIFORMES Family: Monacanthidae Species: Paramonacanthus filicauda Common name: Threadfin leatherjacket Previous nomenclature: Arotrolepis filicauda

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of 111 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF1. Catch locality Disaster Bay, New South Wales, 25 m depth. ID by DMF.

broad and blunt with deep notch. Antirostrum small broad and rounded. Excisura and pseudo-excisura wide; notch deep; angle wide. Dorsal area reduced. Ventral area groove present with minimal sculpturing, follows line of ventral margin.

Otolith description Otolith very small, hour-glass shaped. Dorsal margin flat, but angled and entire to slightly irregular; ventral margin rounded and irregular; posterior margin deeply notched and entire to slightly irregular. Distal surface flat; proximal surface irregular. Sulcus groove deep, homosulcoid; opening ostio-caudal. Colliculum indistinct. Collum bridge-like. Crista superior well developed and diagonal over ostium and cauda, but absent at neck; crista inferior ridge-like and broad, extending onto rostrum and pseudo-rostrum. Rostrum

Morphometry No data are available. Distribution and ecology Typically demersal, northern Australian tropical waters, but occassionally found in east-coast temperate waters (Gomon et al. 1994); reaches 220 mm in length. Predator–prey information None cited.

Otolith of Paramonacanthus filicauda from a fish of 111 mm TL

195

TETRAODONTIFORMES

Order: TETRAODONTIFORMES Family: Ostraciidae Species: Anoplocapros inermis Common name: Eastern smooth boxfish Previous nomenclature: Strophiuruchthys inermis, Strophiuruchthys robustus

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of one specimen of unknown TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF2. Catch locality Bermagui, New South Wales, 40 m depth. ID by DMF.

Distribution and ecology Southern Queensland to Victoria; also South Africa and Solomon Islands (Gomon et al. 1994); juveniles cryptic in behaviour; adults in 10–300 m depth; reaches 370 mm in length (May and Maxwell 1986).

Otolith description Otolith very small, obovate. Dorsal margin rounded and irregular; ventral margin slightly rounded and irregular; posterior margin sharply rounded and irregular. Distal surface flat; proximal surface irregular. Sulcus groove deep, heterosulcoid to homosulcoid; opening ostial to ostio-caudal. Crista superior well developed; crista inferior ridge-like and broad. Rostrum broad and tapering to pointed/sharply rounded. Antirostrum broad and sharply rounded. Excisura wide; notch absent. Dorsal area reduced; depression absent; area striated/uneven. Ventral area with groove following line of ventral margin; shallow and surface uneven.

Predator–prey information Known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Hume et al. 2004). Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of pied cormorant (Phalacrocorax varius) (Marchant and Higgins 1990).

Otolith of Anoplocapros inermis from a fish of unknown TL

196

TETRAODONTIFORMES

Order: TETRAODONTIFORMES Family: Ostraciidae Species: Aracana aurita Common names: Shaw’s cowfish (striped cowfish) Previous nomenclature: Aracana spilogaster

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 98 and 153 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 33.13P3 and 33.13P9. Catch locality Storm Bay. ID by GF.

Distribution and ecology Confined to southern Australia from New South Wales to Dongara (Western Australia), and Tasmania; on shallow rocky reefs and seagrass beds along the southern coasts, but only in trawl depths in its northern range, 10–160 m depth (Gomon et al. 1994).

Otolith description Otolith small, tall discoid. All margins with extreme sculpturing. Sulcus groove heterosulcoid with ostium larger than cauda, but often difficult to distinguish due to extreme formation of colliculum; opening ostia-caudal. Colliculum very well developed. Crista superior ridge-like, extending from anti-rostrum to mid-cauda; crista inferior difficult to distinguish from sculpturing of ventral area. Rostrum and antirostrum margins vary from smooth and rounded to highly irregular. Pseudo-rostrum and pseudo-antirostrum similarly vary in relief, or are absent. Excisura wide; notch deep; angle acute. Pseudo-excisura similar to excisura, or absent. Dorsal area depression deep behind ridge of crista superior. Ventral area depression absent; groove present but indistinct.

Predator–prey information Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) (Hume et al. 2004) and pied cormorant (Phalacrocorax varius) (Marchant and Higgins 1990).

Otolith of Aracana aurita from a fish of 153 mm TL

197

TETRAODONTIFORMES

Order: TETRAODONTIFORMES Family: Tetraodontidae Species: Tetractenos glaber Common name: Smooth toadfish Previous nomenclature: Sphoeroides liosomus, Tetrodon glaber, Torquigener glaber in Last et al. 1983

Morphometry No data are available.

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 139 and 142 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference 33.20P44P45. Catch locality North West Bay, Tasmania. ID by RG.

Distribution and ecology Moreton Bay (Queensland) to South Australia, and Tasmania; estuaries and sheltered coastal bays, occasionally freshwater; abundant on shallow muddy tidal flats (Gomon et al. 1994); reaches 150 mm in length.

Otolith description Otolith very small, tall discoid/hourglass with anterior and posterior projections. All margins acutely dentate with the exception of the ventral margin which is entire. Sulcus groove homosulcoid; opening ostia-caudal; ostium and cauda deep. Colliculum well developed. Collum absent. Crista superior absent; crista inferior very prominent with dentate sculpturing extending onto rostrum and pseudo-rostrum. Rostrum elongate, very long, with dentate relief. Antirostrum and pseudo-antirostrum absent. Pseudo-rostrum short with dentate relief. Excisura and pseudo-excisura wide; notch very deep; angle acute. Dorsal area with dorsally and horizontally radiating lines, depression absent; area reduced and uneven. Ventral area deep; depression groove-like along crista.

Predator–prey information Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of pied cormorant (Phalacrocorax varius) (Marchant and Higgins 1990).

Otolith of Tetractenos glaber from a fish of 142 mm TL

198

TETRAODONTIFORMES

Order: TETRAODONTIFORMES Family: Diodontidae Species: Diodon nichthemerus Common name: Globefish Previous nomenclature: Atopomycterus nichthemerus

Material Description based on otoliths of two specimens of 237 and 228 mm TL. Otolith catalogue reference DMF1 and DMF44. Catch locality Wilsons Promontory, Victoria, 25 m depth. ID by DMF.

Morphometry TL = 270.156 OW 0.008 mm n = 8; Std Err Est = 0.076; R = 0.047; P<0.92 Otolith weight range = 0.8–2.7 mg Fish length range = 252–310 mm TL (CMAR)

Otolith description Otolith very small, tall oval. Dorsal margin rounded and irregular; ventral margin rounded to angular and dentate/irregular; posterior margin rounded and irregular. Sulcus groove deep, homosulcoid; opening ostio-caudal. Colliculum homomorph, fused with deep anterior and posterior pits. Collum absent. Crista superior absent; crista inferior ridge-like. Rostrum and antirostrum absent. Dorsal area and ventral area reduced and uneven.

Distribution and ecology New South Wales to Western Australia, and Tasmania (Last et al. 1983); rocky reefs and seagrass habitats to 70 m depth; usually solitary, but sometimes found in large groups (Edgar et al. 1982); reaches 400 mm in length (May and Maxwell 1986). Predator–prey information Undistinguished species of this Family are known prey of Caspian tern (Sterna caspia) (Higgins and Davies 1996).

Otolith of Diodon nichthemerus from a fish of 237 mm TL

199

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SPECIES INDEX

Note: Bold italics indicate current nomenclature; italics indicate previous nomenclature

Atherinosoma presbyteroides 66 Atopomycterus nichthemerus 199 Atypichthys strigatus 129 Atypus mado 129 Atypus strigatus 129 Austrophycis marginatus 50 Azygopus pinnifasciatus 182–83

A Acanthaluteres spilomelanurus 188–89 Acanthaluteres vittiger 190 Acanthopagrus butcheri 125 Afurcagobius tamarensis 164 Agonostomus forsteri 138 Aldrichetta forsteri 138–39 Allocyttus verrucosus 79 Ammotretis rostratus 180–81 Anoplocapros inermis 196 Anthias pulchellus caesiopercula 105 Aphritis urvillii 156 Apistes marmoratus 89 Apistes panduratus 88 Apistes tasmaniensis 89 Aplodactylus arctidens 131 Aplodactylus meandratus 131 Apogon conspersus 111 Apogonichthys ramsayi 111 Apogonops anomalus 106–07 Aracana aurita 197 Aracana spilogaster 197 Argentina australiae 36 Argentina elongate australiae 36 Argyropelecus gigas 38 Arnoglossus andrewsi 177 Arnoglossus armstrongi 178 Arnoglossus muelleri 178 Arotrolepis filicauda 195 Arripis trutta 120–21 Atherina dannevigi 62 Atherina hepsetoides 62 Atherina microstoma 63 Atherina presbyteroides 66 Atherinasoma vorax 63 Atherinason sp. 64 Atherinason dannevigi 62 Atherinason esox 65 Atherinason hepsetoides 62 Atherinichthys esox 65 Atherinosoma esox 65 Atherinosoma microstoma 63

B Balistes freycinetti 192 Balistes jacksonianus 191 Balistes scaber 194 Balistes scolopax 81 Balistes spilomelanurus 188 Bathytroctes kopua 39 Beryx affinis 70 Beryx decadactylus 68 Beryx gerrardi 72 Beryx splendens 69 Blennius tasmaniensis 162 Brachaluteres jacksonianus 191 Brachaluteres trossulus 191 Brachaluteres wolferi 191 Brachirus fasciatus 186 C Caelorinchus australis 55 Caelorinchus fasciatus 56 Caelorinchus maurofasciatus 57 Caesioperca lepidoptera 102 Caesioperca rasor 103 Caranx declivis 118 Caranx dentex 116 Caranx georgianus 116 Centroberyx affinis 70–71 Centroberyx gerrardi 72–73 Cheilodactylus douglasi 132 Cheilodactylus macropterus 134 Cheilodactylus morwong 132 Chelidonichthys kumu 90 Chlorophthalmus nigripinnis 40 Chrysophrys auratus 126 Chrysophrys unicolor 126 Clupea bassensis 31 Clupea neopilchardus 28–29

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Otoliths of Common Australian Temperate Fish

Coelorinchus australis 55 Coelorinchus fasciatus 56 Coelorinchus maurofasciatus 57 Coelorinchus mortoni 55 Coryphaenoides novae-zelandiae 54 Crapatalus arenarius 154 Crapatalus munroi 152–53 Crapatalus sp. 152–53 Craterocephalus esox 65 Cristiceps australis 158–59 Cristiceps robustus 160 Cyttoidops mccullochi 76 Cyttosoma verrucosum 79 Cyttus australis 74 Cyttus mccullochi 76 Cyttus novaezelandiae 75 Cyttus traversi 76

Glyptauchen panduratus 88 Gobius pulchellus 165 Gobius tamarensis 164 Gobius tasmanicus 164 Gymnapistes marmoratus 89 H Haplozebrias fasciatus 186 Helicolenus barathri 84–85 Helicolenus percoides 86 Heteroclinus perspicillatus 160–61 Hoplichthys haswelli 101 Hoplostethus intermedius 67 Hygophum hanseni 46 Hypoplectrodes annulata 104 Hyporhamphus melanochir 61 I Ichthyscopus barbatus 148 Isosillago maculate 113

D Dactylopagrus macropterus 134 Dactylopagrus morwong 132 Dactylosargus arctidens 131 Diaphus danae 41 Diaphus hudsoni 42 Diaphus metopoclampus 43 Diaphus ostenfeldi 44 Dinolestes lewini 112 Diodon nichthemerus 199

K Kathetostoma canaster 149 Kathetostoma laeve 150–51 Kathetostoma sp.1 149 Kestratherina brevirostris 64 Kestratherina esox 65

E Electrona rissoi 45 Ellerkeldia annulata 104 Emmelichthys nitidus 122–23 Enchelyopus bachus 52 Engraulis antipodum 32 Engraulis australis 32 Epigonus denticulatus 109 Epigonus lenimen 110 Erythrichthys nitidus 122 Eupetrichthys gloveri 145

L Labrus auratus 126 Lampanyctodes hectoris 47 Lampanyctus australis 48 Latridopsis ciliaris 136 Latridopsis forsteri 136 Latridopsis ramsayi 136 Latris lineata 137 Latris mortoni 137 Leionura atun 170 Lepidoperca inornata 105 Lepidoperca pulchella 105 Lepidopus caudatus 172 Lepidopus lex 172 Lepidorhynchus denticulatus 58 Lepidotrigla modesta 91 Lepidotrigla mulhalli 92 Lepidotrigla papilio 93 Lepidotrigla phalaena 93 Lepidotrigla vanessa 94–95 Leptatherina presbyteroides 66 Lesueurina platycephala 154–55

F Favonigobius tamarensis 164 Foetorepus calauropomus 163 G Genypterus blacodes 60 Genypterus microstomus 60 Gilbertia annulata 104 Glyphidodon australis 140 Glyptauchen insidiator 88

206

Index

Liopempheris multiradiatus 127 Lophonectes gallus 179 Lovettia sealii 35 Lucigadus nigromaculata 59

Ophthalmolepis cyanogramma 144 Ophthalmolepis lineolatus 144 P Pagrus auratus 126 Parablennius tasmanianus 162 Paramonacanthus filicauda 195 Parasillago bassensis flindersi 115 Paratrigla modesta 91 Paratrigla papilio 93 Paraulopus nigripinnis 40 Parequula bicornis 124 Parequula melbournensis 124 Parika scaber 194 Parma australis 140 Parma microlepis 140 Parma squamipinnis 140 Pempheris multiradiata 127 Pempheris multiradiatus 127 Penicipelta vittiger 190 Persparsia kopua 39 Persparsia taaningi 39 Phosichthys argenteus 37 Photicthys argenteus 37 Physiculus bachus 52 Physiculus marginatus 50 Pictilabrus laticlavius 145 Platycephalus aurimaculatus 97 Platycephalus bassensis 100 Platycephalus conatus 98 Platycephalus mortoni 99 Platycephalus richardsoni 99 Plectropoma annulatum 104 Polyprion oxygeneios 108 Pseudaphritis bursinus 156 Pseudaphritis urvillii 156–57 Pseudocaranx dentex 116–17 Pseudolabrus furicola 141 Pseudolabrus mortonii 146 Pseudolabrus pittensis 141 Pseudolabrus psittaculus 146 Pseudolabrus rubicundus 146 Pseudolabrus tetricus 142 Pseudophycis bachus 52–53 Pterygotrigla polyommata 96

M Macrorhamphosus elevatus 81 Macrorhamphosus gallinago 81 Macrorhamphosus lancifer 81 Macrorhamphosus robustus 81 Macrorhamphosus scolopax 81 Macrorhamphosus velitaris 81 Macruronus novaezelandiae 54 Meuschenia freycineti 192–93 Meuschenia scaber 194 Meuschenia skottowei 192 Monacanthus vittiger 190 Mugil forsteri 138 Myctophum humboldti 49 Myctophum metopoclampus 43 N Navodon multiradiatus 192 Nemadactylus douglasii 132–33 Nemadactylus macropterus 134–35 Neoblennius fasciatus 160 Neocyttus rhomboidalis 80 Neoodax algensis 147 Neoodax balteatus 147 Neoodax brunneus 147 Neoodax obscurus 147 Neoplatycephalus aurimaculatus 97 Neoplatycephalus conatus 98 Neoplatycephalus grandis 99 Neoplatycephalus richardsoni 99 Neoplatycephalus sp.1 97 Neosebastes scorpaenoides 82 Neosebastes thetidis 83 Nesogobius pulchellus 165 Nesogobius sp.1 166–67 Nesogobius sp.2 168 Nesogobius sp.3 168 Notacanthus sexspinis 33 Notolabrus fucicola 141 Notolabrus tetricus 142–43 Notophycis marginata 50–51 Notophycis marginata tasmaniensis 50

R Rexea solandri 169 Rhinhoplichys haswelli 101 Rhombosolea monopus 184 Rhombosolea tapirina 184–85

O Odax balteatus 147 Oncorhynchus mykiss 34

207

Otoliths of Common Australian Temperate Fish

S Salmo gairdnerii 34 Sardinops neopilchardus 28–29 Sardinops sagax ocellatus 28 Scomber atun 170 Scomber australasicus 173 Scomber dentex 116 Scorpaena barathri 84 Scorpaena ergastulorum 87 Scorpaena papillosa 87 Scorpis lineolata 130 Sebastes percoides 86 Sebastes thetidis 83 Seriolella bilineata 176 Seriolella brama 174–75 Seriolella maculate 176 Seriolella punctata 176 Sillaginodes punctata 113 Sillago bassensis 114 Sillago bassensis flindersi 115 Sillago flindersi 115 Sillago punctata 113 Sparus aurata 126 Sphoeroides liosomus 198 Spratelloides robustus 30 Sprattus bassensis 31 Sprattus novaehollandiae 31 Stenatherina esox 65 Strophiuruchthys inermis 196 Strophiuruchthys robustus 196 Symbolophorus barnardi 49 Synanceja papillosus 87 Synchiropus calauropomus 163

Taeniomembras lincolnensis 66 Taeniomembras microstoma 63 Taeniomembras tamarenisi 66 Tetractenos glaber 198 Tetrodon glaber 198 Thyrsites atun 170–71 Torquigener glaber 198 Trachichthodes gerrardi 72 Trachurus declivis 118–19 Trichiurus caudatus 172 Trigla kumu 90 Trigla papilio 93 Trigla polyommata 96 Trigla vanessa 94 U Upeneichthys vlamingii 128 Upeneichthys sp. 128 Usacaranx georgianus 116 Usacaranx nobilis 116 V Ventrifossa nigromaculata 59 Vincentia conspersa 111 Vincentia guntheri 111 Vincentia lemprier 111 Vincentia waterhousii 111 Z Zebrias fasciatus 186 Zebrias scalaris 186–87 Zenopsis nebulosus 77 Zeus faber 78 Zeus japonicus 78 Zeus nebulosus 77 Zeus novaezelandiae 75 Zeus pungio 78

T Taeniomembras edelensis 66 Taeniomembras endorae 63

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