Fin's Fish Guide
The Keke (Aplodactylus arctidens) is a saltwater fish of the family Aplodactylidae that grows up to 65 cm.
Temperate waters around southern Australia and New Zealand; seaweed-covered reef slopes.
Description
The marblefish is a reef fish of the family Aplodactylidae from the temperate waters around southern Australia and New Zealand. The species grows to about 65 cm and has an elongate, grey-brown mottled body. It inhabits weedy reef slopes in shallow to moderately deep coastal water. It is one of the few predominantly herbivorous marine fishes of temperate regions: with its flattened, lobed teeth it grazes mainly red algae, also taking in the small invertebrates living on the weed. The marblefish is a common reef dweller and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Keke?
The Keke has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Lobed teeth for grazing red algae; one of the few herbivorous marine fishes of temperate regions.
Where does the Keke live?
The Keke lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Temperate waters around southern Australia and New Zealand; seaweed-covered reef slopes.
How big does the Keke get?
The Keke grows to a maximum of about 65 cm.
Is the Keke dangerous to humans?
No, the Keke is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Keke edible?
The Keke is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Keke?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Keke is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Aplodactylus
More from the family Aplodactylidae
Want the complete picture on the Keke?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Keke is one of 12,519 species in the app.