Fin's Fish Guide
The Australian silver dory (Cyttus australis) is a saltwater fish of the family Cyttidae that grows up to 47 cm.
Temperate waters around southern Australia; continental shelf and slope.
Description
The silver dory is a deep-water fish of the family Cyttidae from the temperate waters around southern Australia. The species grows to about 47 cm and has a deep, strongly laterally compressed, silvery body with large eyes and a strongly protrusible mouth. It lives on the continental shelf and slope, often in schools near the bottom. With its suddenly far-protruding mouth it sucks up small fishes, shrimps and other crustaceans. The silver dory is a valued commercial fish taken by trawling. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Australian silver dory?
The Australian silver dory has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Deep, silvery body with large eyes and a highly protrusible mouth for sucking in prey.
Where does the Australian silver dory live?
The Australian silver dory lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Temperate waters around southern Australia; continental shelf and slope.
How big does the Australian silver dory get?
The Australian silver dory grows to a maximum of about 47 cm.
Is the Australian silver dory dangerous to humans?
No, the Australian silver dory is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Australian silver dory edible?
Yes, the Australian silver dory is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cyttus
More from the family Cyttidae
Want the complete picture on the Australian silver dory?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Australian silver dory is one of 12,519 species in the app.