Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded rockcod (Hyporthodus ergastularius) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 157 cm.
Description
The banded rockcod is a large grouper of the family Serranidae from the southwestern Pacific off the coast of Australia. The species can grow to over a metre and has a robust body; juveniles have conspicuous dark bands that fade with age. It lives on rocky reefs of the continental shelf and slope, at considerable depth. As an ambush hunter it catches fishes and crustaceans. Owing to slow growth and fishing the species is considered near threatened. It is a valued food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded rockcod?
The Banded rockcod has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Juveniles with dark bands that fade; slow-growing deep-reef grouper, near threatened.
Where does the Banded rockcod live?
The Banded rockcod lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southwest Pacific off Australia; rocky reefs of the shelf and slope.
How big does the Banded rockcod get?
The Banded rockcod grows to a maximum of about 157 cm.
Is the Banded rockcod dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded rockcod is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Banded rockcod edible?
Yes, the Banded rockcod is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Banded rockcod?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded rockcod is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hyporthodus
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the Banded rockcod?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded rockcod is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone