Fin's Fish Guide
The Magpie morwong (Cheilodactylus nigripes) is a saltwater fish of the family Cheilodactylidae that grows up to 41 cm.
Temperate waters around southern Australia; rocky reefs and kelp forests.
Description
The magpie morwong is a reef fish of the morwong family (Cheilodactylidae) from the temperate waters around southern Australia. The species grows to about 41 cm and has a whitish body with conspicuous black oblique bars, a pattern recalling a magpie, hence the name. It inhabits rocky reefs and kelp forests, where with its fleshy lips it picks small benthic invertebrates from the bottom and sediment; the long lower pectoral rays help it feel its way. Adults are fairly site-attached. The magpie morwong is a common reef dweller and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Magpie morwong?
The Magpie morwong has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Black-and-white magpie pattern and long lower pectoral fin rays for feeling the bottom.
Where does the Magpie morwong live?
The Magpie morwong lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Temperate waters around southern Australia; rocky reefs and kelp forests.
How big does the Magpie morwong get?
The Magpie morwong grows to a maximum of about 41 cm.
Is the Magpie morwong dangerous to humans?
No, the Magpie morwong is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Magpie morwong edible?
The Magpie morwong is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cheilodactylus
More from the family Cheilodactylidae
Want the complete picture on the Magpie morwong?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Magpie morwong is one of 12,519 species in the app.