98
ORDER GAS TE ROSTEI FORMES
This order includes the sticklebacks, flutemouths, bellowfish, trumpetfish and the pipefish and seahorses. All members of this order have soft rayed fins» Only the latter group is represented in the Reserve.
Family Sl/ognatSlidae - seahorses and pipefishes
These fish are most abundant in shallow subtropical and tropical seas , but some species are found in temperate waters. There are more than species of pipefish, some of which are freshwater species. The dozen or so seahorse species are all marine. Pipefish and seahorses are identical in anatomical features, except that the pipefish is straight whereas the seahorse has its head bent downwards, joining the body almost at right angles. The body is long and slender and may be laterally compressed or rounded. The skeleton is external and consists of bony plates arranged in regular series and firmly connected to form a body carapace. Scales are absent» The head is slender and the snout long and tube-like, with a small, toothless mouth situated at its tip» The gill openings are reduced to small slits. The tail may or may not be prehensile. There is usually one dorsal fin situated opposite a minute anal fin. The pectoral and caudal fins are small or absent. There are no pelvic fins. Male sygnathids possess a brood pouch on the underside of the tail or abdomen. This is usually formed by folds of skin which meet along the midline of the body. The pouch of the seahorses is amost entirely closed, opening to the outside only through a small hole. While spawning the male receives the eggs from the female into his pouch. Here they are fertilised and incubated until they hatch. Pipefish belong to the genus Neophris have no brood pouch. Instead the eggs are attached along the outside of the male1s body. These fish are poor swimmers and more or less drift with the current. Movement can be achieved by rapidly undulating the dorsal fin and vibrating the pectoral fins. Seahorses typically swim in an upright position, whereas the pipefish usually swim horizontally. Three of the seven New Zealand species are found in the Reserve. The others are the spiny seadragon, Sotegnathus spinosissimus Gunther, and the pipefishes , Leptonotus novae (Waite), L„elevatus (Hutton) and Stigmatopora nigra Kaup. 99
Family : Syngnathidae
Lissocampys Tūum - short-snouted pipefish
DESCRIPTION: This pipefish has a long slender body with the tail tapered to a fine point. It is distinguished from other New Zealand pipefish by the short snout and the low counts of the dorsal and pectoral fin rays. The gill openings are very small and can be recognised by little knobs on the gill bars» The two flaps of skin which form the brood pouch are situated on the undersurface of the male5s abdomen, below the 13th and 16th body rings. This pipefish is usually pale brown with dark cross bars but may have an olive green tinge to the back» This small fish seldom exceeds 110mm in length„ Pipefish are extremely poor swimmers and are usually found shelterig among the seaweeds„ The colour and shape of the fish provide them with excellent camouflage„ The short-snouted pipefish usually swimms horizontally in the water although short periods of vertical swimming have been recorded0 The small dorsal fin is the only source of locomotion.
DISTRIBUTION: General: L = fiturn is found in South America^ New Zealand and the Chatham Islands. They are commonly found among the seaweed of sheltered bays and harbours throughout New Zealand, to depths of 6m. Locals This species is not common in the relatively exposed coastal waters of the Reserve? however they are occasionally sighted»
FEEDING: The diet of the pipefish consists of minute crustacea* To capture their preyf pipefish expel water from the mouth and pharynx and suck the animal in with the return wash of water»
LIFE HISTORY: Little is known of the age and growth of this fish* Sexual maturity is usually reached at 70~80mm in length. At the approach of the breeding season the flaps of the male1s brood pouchy which are cemented together outside the season, become enlarged and swollen. To spawn, the male and female entwine with the oviduct of the female.protruding into the pouch of the male* Fertilisation takes place as the eggs are transfered form female to male* A male may carry as many as 45 eggs 0 The eggs are large with an average diameter of 1o 5mmo When the eggs hatch the pouch opens to allow the young to escape. Afterwards the flaps close and adhere together again. 100
LissQeafripys filum CD 14-15; R6 -85 C.10; body rings 21 = 22; tail rings 44-48.) r
male
7mm t© 110 mm V
Zealand! distnbut aora i sirs but! on wethbo the Reserve
SotertidaS and shallow o subtidal weed - dweller,
uncommon
IF TP EF
Habitat type
Diet Life history patterns 101
Family : Syngnathidae
. Stogmatopora maeropferfgia - long-snouted pipefish
DESCRIPTION: This species is similar to Loftlwn except that the snout is very long, almost twice the length of the head* There is one dorsal fin which is situated well toward the tail, a small caudal fin and two small pectoral fins near the head» 'The male's brood pouch consists of two flaps of-skin« Body colour is green with brown cross bars» This species is the larger of the two pipefish found in the Reserve» The average length is 250mm but they can reach 450mm long» As with L.filvm the body shape and colouration of this fish form effective protective camouflage in its typical seaweed habitat» These fish are poor swimmers and are usually found sheltering in the weed. Most accounts maintain the pipefish tail is not prehensile; however these fish have been observed holding onto the seaweed with their tails»
DISTRIBUTION: General: This species appears to be a New Zealand - Auckland Island endemic» It occurs throughout northern New Zealand, extending as far south as Otago Harbour» The fish are more common in sheltered bays and harbours than in coastal regions»
Local: S0macropterygia are occasionally seen in the Reserve amongst the kelp forests, to depths of 14m»
FEEDING: Pipefish feed on tiny crustacea, particularly copepods, small worms and the eggs of other marine animals» They have been observed swimming horizontally, vertically and even wriggling in an eel-like fashion while searching for food» The prey is gulped quickly and swallowed whole»
LIFE HISTORY: Details of age and growth are unknown» Brooding males usually exceed 200mm in length» During spawning the eggs are transfered from female to male in a
similar manner to L0 fi turn» The males carry 40-50 eggs» The flaps of skin forming the brood pouch fold over the eggs to protect them while they are developing» The young are released form the pouch as exact replicas of the parents» Stigmatopora macropterygia (D. 63*74; P. 15-19; body rings 21-22f)
Diet Lif
Family : Syngnathidae
[Hippocampus afedommaSss - seahorse
(Hippos = a horse, campus = a seamonster abdominalis - refers to the abdomen)
DESCRIPTION: The body of the seahorse is laterally compressed with only the dorsal and pectoral fins present» The females lack the brood pouch and head projections of the male and also tend to be more squat in posture» Body colouration varies from brown to gold with dark spots, usually resembling the colour of the seaweed the fish inhabits» The average length (fully extended) of a seahorse is 100=150mm» Maximum length recorded is 325mm» Seahorses are usually found resting, holding onto seaweeds with their prehensile tails, or swimming slowly near kelp cover» They swim upright with their heads bent down and their tails curled at the bottom» A well developed swim bladder is important to their floating and drifting movements and compensates for their limited swimming abilities»
DISTRIBUTION: General: Thfe species is found throughout the New Zealand region and also in south-east Australian seas» Seahorses inhabit seaweed covered areas in harbours and along sheltered coastlines» Local: These secretive, well camouflaged fish are occasionally seen in the Reserve in weed strewn areas»
FEEDING: Small crustacea such as amphipods and copepods, are taken from the sea floor and the seaweed» The seahorse moves slowly toward its stationary prey, places its mouth nearby and by inflating the cheeks and throat, sucks up the animal»
LIFE HISTORY: No information is available on age, growth or maturity» Spawning usually occurs in spring» Eggs are passed form the female into the male's brood pouch a few at a time» Fertilisation probably occurs during the act of transfer» The eggs hatch inside the brood pouch after 30-50 days» The young are ejected by the male pressing his abdomen against a hard object and forcing a few out at a time» The young fish are fully developed and their tails are prehensile» At first they swim horizontally then later take up their typical vertical position» 104
CD.26= 31; A<4; P.14-17; 17-21; tail
fe§r.ane
15mm
New Zealand distribution 105
ORDER SCOIRPAEM i FORTIES
This large, diversified group is characterised by the presence of a bony ridge, or stay, running across the cheek from the suborbital bones to the preoperculum» The head is generally armoured with several spiny projections or bony knobs and is sometimes encased in bony plates . Most fish in this group are of a small to moderate size» They usually have strong spines in the dorsal and anal fins which may be capable of inflicting severe wounds. Some have poison glands, containing highly toxic venom, near or at the base of the spines. This order includes the tropical stonefish (family Synancejidae) which present the ultimate in extremes of obliterative camouflage in fishes and are among the most venomous fishes<, The sculpins, greenlings, sablefish, poachers, snailfish, rockfish, sea robins and the scorpionfish are other members of this order 1
Family Scorpaeoada© - scorpionfishes and rockfishes
This is a large family comprised of about 300 species. Scorpaenids are robust-bodied fishes and their heads are armoured with spines => The typical colouration is redo There is one dorsal fin which is divided into spiny and soft portions by a pronounced dip* There are no free rays on the pectoral fins0 Poison glands lie at the base of the dorsal fin spines and the poison is directed to the tip of the spine by a canal„ These are carnivorous, marine fishes, widely distributed throughout the world. They are most abundant in shallow to moderate depths in tropical seaso Some species occur in the cooler temperate seas and in deep waters, to 400m„
Most of these fish are sedentary and highly camouflaged 0 They lie in wait among the rocks, to ambush their prey» The red scorpionfish,. Scovpaena cardinalis, which is found in the Reserve, is one of two New Zealand scorpaenids» The other species, the sea perch, Eelioolenus papillosus? is a southern new Zealand species.
Family Trigloda® - sea robins and gurnards
Members of this family have several features in common. The head is completely encased in bony armour. There are two separate dorsal fins with well developed, bony knuckles present at the base. The three lower rays of the pectoral fins are completely detached and modified to form feelerso These feelers are used to explore the bottom in search of food,» 106
The pectoral fins themselves are large and usually strikingly adorned. The elongate, tapering bodies are usually covered with scales or bony plates» Trigilids are small, carnivorous fishes, with representatives in all warm seas and in some temperate regions» They are usually sedentary and live in deep waters., The upper part to the pectoral fin is used for swimming. The pelvic fins may be used in conjunction with the pectoral fins for 'walking® over the sea floor. Four gurnard species are known in New Zealand. The red gurnard, Chelidoniohthys kumu, is the only coastal species. The other three are widespread around the outer shelf waters of New Zealand, at depths of 100-300xrio The scaly gurnard, Lepidotvigla brachyoptera Hutton, and the spotted gurnard, Pterygotrigla picta, are relatively common, whereas Lepidotrigla Vanessa (Richardson) is rare. 107
Familyo Scorpaenidae
Scorpaena cardioaSSs - scorpionfish, grandfather hapuku
DESCRIPTIONi The red scorpionfish is a well camouflaged fish which resembles its surroundings in both colour and form* It has a heavy, spiny head and a relatively small, tapering body which is variably patterned with shades of red. It exhibits several features characteristic of a sedentary life styleo The pectoral fins which are used to prop up the body, are well developed and have thickened lower rays. There is no swim bladdero The dorsal and anal fins possess strong spines„ Poison glands are located at the base of the dorsal fin spines„ Only small individuals are found in coastal waters such as~the
Reserve, where they reach about 200mm in length and 0o.2kg in weight* Around the offshore islands the fish can grow as large as 350mm long and 5* 5kg in weight. Scorpionfish are nocturnal= During the day they rest in rocky shelterso They are solitary fish and the large males defend territories from other scorpionfish„
DISTRIBUTIONi General» S. aardi-nali-s is found in New Zealand and south- east Australia. It is abundant on the rocky reefs about the New Zealand
coast and offshore islands^ to depths of 200mo Local: Within the Reserve, scorpionfish are usually found in
•the broken rock habitats where there is plenty of food and shelter0
FEEDING: Scorpionfish are carnivorous, taking small fish, crabs and hermit crabs» They catch their prey by lurking on the bottom and waiting. When a suitable animal passes by, the scorpionfish attacks with a short rush, and swallow its prey whole.
LIFE HISTORY: No information is available on age and growth for this specieso ' Reproductions Scorpionfish are believed to be ovoviviparous . The eggs are fertilized internally and the females extrude the young at the larval stage. The young still retain the yolk sac which is quickly absorbed after release. The closely related scorpaenid, the sea perch, Helicolenus papillosus has been observed releasing as many as 80,000 larvae„
109
Family: Trigilidae
ChelldOBlBChihys kumu - red gurnard
DESCRIPTION? Red gurnard are easily recognised by their rough, bony, angular head, their body colouration and the very large, dark pectoral fins. The body is red on the dorsal surface and sides, with large dark spots, paling to white on the belly. The outer side of the pectoral fin is red and the inner side is green with a large black spot which is marked with smaller light blue spots * The three lower rays of these fins are completely detached and modified to form feelers . The head is completely encased in bony armour and the body is covered with scales. The upper jaw is longer than the lower and both possess bands of small, smooth teetho The maximum size recorded for this species is 600mm in length and 2kg in weight. The average length is 250-400mxn. Gurnard are sedentary fishes and are usually found resting on, or foraging over sandy bottoms.
DISTRIBUTION : General: C«kumu is found around New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, Japan, China and the Malay Archipelago. It occurs down both coasts of New Zealand, except for the southern fiords. Gurnard are usually found on muddy, sandy or shelly bottoms, to depths of 180m. The best commercial catches are taken in waters about 55m deep. Immature fish are usually found in shallower waters. Local: Red gurnard have occasionally been seen in the Reserve, on the sandy bottoms at the outer edge'of the rocky reef, in waters 20-=22m deep.
FEEDING: This species is a broad carnivore. Its range of prey items is similar to that of the snapper, Chrysophrys auratus. The crustaceans, especially crabs, are the most important group in the diet of the red gurnard. The fish8s bony, wedged-shaped head and the shape of the mouth aid in taking small prey from under shells and stones. The feelers are used to probe and explore the bottom, in search of food.
LIFE HISTORY: Age and growth: These fish can live for 10 years. Most 110
Chelidonicthys kumu (D.ix-x.15; A. 14-15; V.i.5; R10-11; C.12; L.l. 75-85.)
Diet Life history patterns Ill
growth occurs in the first four years, after that the increase in length is very slow. Growth rate varies markedly with location. The maximum size attained by fish from different populations can range between 250mm and 600 mm long. The females grow faster and are usually larger than the males« Males and females reach sexual maturity at a size of 230mm long and an age of 2-4 years. Reproductions Red gurnard migrate to offshore spawning grounds to breed. Ripe females are present in the population all year round, except for June and July. Peak spawning occurs in December and January. The males tend to remain on the spawning grounds longer than the females or even all year, to the detriment of their growth. Eggs are present in coastal waters during the summer and autumn. Eggs diameters range from 1.3mm to l.Smxru The chorion is smooth and the non-segmented yolk contains a single oil droplet which measures 0c275mm in diameter.
ORDER PERClFORSyiES
This is a large order of perch-^like fishes including such diverse families as the mullets, mackerels, rock cods and blennies. These fish are characterised by having not more than one spine and six rays in their pelvic fins. The first dorsal fin is spined, or if there is only one dorsal fin the front portion is spined. Over half the fish found in the Reserve belong to this order. They are divided into seven suborders and twenty four families. Suborder Psrcoidei
These fish have spiny rays supporting the fins. The pelvic fins are well developed and the scales are mostly ctenoid i.e. the hind edge of the scale is minutely toothed.
Family SerrasiidSace - gropers and sea basses
More than 400 species comprise this family of predominantly marine fishes. Serranids are most abundant in tropical seas with a few representatives in temperate waters. A few species live in brackish or even fresh waters. All species are carnivorous and live at moderate depths on 112
rocky and coral reefs. Although some features vary greatly, all serranids have a bass-like body. Generally, there is only one dorsal fin. The anal fin is composed of 3 spines and 7 soft rays and the pelvic fin of 1 spine and 5 soft rays. Three spines are present on the gill cover. Serranids range in size from species 2-3mm long to those 2m long. Most species in this group are hermaphrodites. Some are sequential hermaphrodites - the individuals change from one sex to the other during their life - and others are simultaneous hermaphrodites - individuals function as male and female at the same time. Serranids also vary in their mode of life. The New Zealand species can be divided into two groups: (1) The bottom dwelling basses and groper - these fish may be large and wide ranging or small and home ranging. They are solitary or live in pairs or small groups. This group includes the hapuku, Polyprion oxygenesis 7 the bass, P.moenei redbanded perch, Ellerkeldia huntii; toadstool groper:, Trachypoma macracanthus; gold ribbon groper, Aulacocephalus temminki; black spotted groper, Epinephelus damelii and the yellowbanded perch, Acanthistus cinctus. (2) The midwater plankton feeders - this group has an entirely different life style as they are usually found in large midwater aggregations. Butterfly perch, Caesioperca lepidoptera? pink maomao, Caprodon longimanus$ spendid perch, Callanthias allporti and orange perch, Anthias pulchellus make up this group.
Only four species} Eo huntiif C.lepidoptera, C.longimanus and
Cc allporti r have been recorded in the Reserve. The other serranids are occasionally seen on our north-eastern coast but are more common around the offshore islands such as the Poor Knights and Moko Hinaus.
The acantho c1in id s form a small, specialised perciform family which is restricted to New Zealand and the Kermadec Islands. These fish are small and carnivorous and are usually found in the intertidal region. The body is elongate, oblong in shape and laterally compressed. There is a long, single dorsal fin. These fish usually have several lateral lines running the length of the body. Two species have been recorded in New Zealand; Acanthoclinus trilineatus Griffin and A.quadridactylus. Only the latter occurs in the Reserve. 113
Family: Serranidae
ESBerkeldia hyotsi - redhanded perch
DESCRIPTION: These small groper (about 200mm long) have a laterally compressed body and typically, have only one dorsal fin and three sharp spines on the operculum. Adults have 6-7 reddish brown vertical bars almost covering the body* 'The head is a similar colour and the rest of the body is white. On juveniles the bands are present as a series of bright red dots. There are also bright yellow markings on the head which fade as the fish grow. Redbanded perch are active during the day and are seldom seen at night. They are sedentary fish and are usually found resting on the substratum or sheltering in cracks and crevices. The males are territorial with respect to other males. They may be solitary or found in pairs with the smaller females. In pairs, the female's home range is entirely within the boundaries of the male's territory.
DISTRIBUTION: Generals This species is known from Lord Howe Island and New Zealand. It is found' throughout New Zealand, but is more common in northern waters. The perch usually inhabit broken, rocky ground at depths of 12~200m. Local: In the Reserve E.huntii has only been found on the deep reef, 16-20m deep, at low densities of about 5 fish per hectare.
FEEDING: Redbanded perch feed throughout the day, but most actively at dawn and dusk. Small benthic fish, crabs and hermit crabs are the most common food items taken.
LIFE HISTORY: E.huntii can live for five years. Growth is slow and varies with location. Fish on the coast tend to grow faster and are therefore larger than those around the offshore islands. Maximum size reached in the Reserve is 200mm, 150g compared with 170mm, 90g at the Poor Knights. Most individuals mature in their first year, at a size of about 80mm long. Redbanded perch are protogynous hermaphrodites. Sex change, from female to male, occurs over a wide range of size (70-160mm) and age (l-3years). Spawning has not been observed; however, these fish are probably similar to other related species and spawn in pairs, in midwater. Gonads are ripe between September and December. 114
[llerkeldia huntii (D.x.20-22; A.iii.7-8; V.i.4.)
Diet Life history patterns 115
Family: Serranidae
Caesioperca lepidoptera - butterfly perch
(lepidoptera - refers to the butterfly)
DESCRIPTIONs This fish is easily recognised by its deep compressed body, small upturned mouth, scaly fin bases and the large black spot on either side of the bodyc The body Is usually slightly pink, marked with greenish dots and is blue around the head. Sometimes colouration is predominantly rede Individuals can reach 400mm in length, but the average length is 150~250mme The largest specimen recorded from the Reserve was 270mm long and 275g in weight„
C0lepidoptera are found in loose midwater groups of 10-20 fish during the day.
DISTRIBUTION: General: This species is distributed throughout New Zealand, but is most common in northern waters, It is also found in south east Australian seas . These fish usually occur over rocky reefs to depths of 60m, especially around rocky prominences which are subject to strong and continual water movement. Local: C.lepidoptera are found mainly over the deep reefs around Goat Island where they reach densities of 150 fish per hectare„ They also occur in areas of shallow broken rock.
FEEDING: Butterfly perch feed indiscriminantly on planktonic organisms. The fish orientate to the oncoming current, maintain a steady position, and pick individual organisms out of the passing water mass. Copepods are the major food item, but euphausids and crab larvae are also taken. Doliolids appear to be the preferred item when these are abundant in the plankton.
LIFE HISTORY: These fish may live for 7-8 years. They reach maturity in their first year when they are about 100mm long. Pair spawning occurs in midwater between July and October. The males are usually larger than the females which suggests that these fish may change sex from female to male, as with many other serranids. Recently settled juveniles, about 20mm long, are first sighted around November. 116
8 isioperea lepidoptera (D.x.19-21, A.iSi.9-10; ¥.1.5; P.16; C.18; L.I.65- 70.)
Sealandl dlistnibwt Son Distribution withlm the Reserve r
150 J 72
100
^/ / y (i ^ IF EF SG
Habitat type V
Life his Crab larvae 11% Arrow worms 8%
larvae spawning 6% Mysid shrimps 3% Others 1% Juveniles 117
Family: Serranidae
Caprodoo longimamys - pink rnaomao, longfin
DESCRIPTIONs Pink rnaomao are easily recognised by their irridescent pink colouring. They are oblong and strongly compressed from side to side with conspicuously long pectoral fins. The skin is free of mucous and sandpaper rough. The mouth is tilted and upturned, with small, sharp teeth. The average length of these fish is 300-400mm. Maximum length recorded is 540mm. Pink rnaomao are active during the day and shelter under rocky ledges at night. In the summer individuals are also frequently seen resting during the day. While inactive the fish are light pink with large white blotches. Individuals aggregate to form loose groups which are often associated with groups of butterfly perch. These aggregations appear to be home ranging.
DISTRIBUTION: General: C«Xongimonus is found around the coasts of New South Wales, Hawaii, Korea, southern Japan and New Zealand. They occur down the east coast of New Zealand as far as Cook Strait, but are most common around the offshore islands, from the Poor Knights to White Island. They usually live where there is a moderate current, near rock faces, submerged pinnacles, archways and tunnels. They are found from surface waters to depths of 80m. However, there is a tendency for the fish to use the deeper waters of this range. Local: Pink maomao are occasionally sighted in the Reserve, usually over the deep reefs on the seaward side of Goat Island.
FEEDING % These fish are plankton feeders. They use their long pectoral fins to manoeuver in the water while snapping at individual planktonic organisms. Large plankters, such as euphausid shrimps, are the main prey items. However, when doliolids are abundant in the plankton over the summer, they comprise about 95% of the diet.
LIFE HISTORY: Little is known about the life history of this species. Gonads are ripe around July, but spawning has not yet been observed. Juveniles 35mm long, are first seen during August. 118
„19-20; A.iii. 7-8; V.i.5; P.16-17; r
V
Life history patterns 119
Family: Serranidae
Callasifhias allporti - splendid perch, Allport's perch
DESCRIPTION: Splendid perch are best identified by'colouration and the shape of the lateral line» They are bright red in colour which grades to orange and then bright yellow toward the tail, and pink and violet on the head. Males"change colour during the breeding season* The body becomes latticed with white, the dorsal and anal fins are marked with pink spots and large red spots appear across the tips of the caudal fin. In this species the lateral line rises sharply from the gill cover to run just below the dorsal fin base -.a characteristic of this genus. Other distinguishing features are the two small spines on the gill cover and the lunate tail. The average size is 200-300mm. Females are usually smaller than the males. These fish are diurnal and form loose aggregations in midwater, often with groups of the related pink rnaomao, Cdongimanus.
DISTRIBUTION : General: C.allpovti is found in south and south-eastern
Australia, New Zealand/ and has also been reported off the west coast of America. These fish probably occur all around New Zealand, but are most common along the north-east coast, especially around the offshore islands. They are usually found over rocky reefs, at depths of 50m or more. Local: Splendid per.ch are rare in the Reserve but they have been sighted over the deep reefs around Goat Island.
FEEDING: These fish feed mainly on planktonic crustacea, particularly copepods and euphausids. Doliolids and the larvacean, Oikopleura, also form a substantial part of the diet where these foods are abundant.
LIFE HISTORY: No information is available on age and growth for this fish. Pair spawning has been observed close to the bottom, in waters 60m deep, in mid October. The difference in size between the sexes suggests that these fish may be sex changing, as in many other serranids. 120
CalSamthias V.i.5; P.21; C.15; L.l.42-
Ze Distribution within the Reserve
groups5 o sightings
TF EF 1 SG
Hc.bila. type
Life history Family: Acanthoclinidae
AcanthocSanys qsuadradadylus - rockfish
(quadridactylus = four fingered)
DESCRIPTION: Rockfish are easily identified by their long dark bodies and the long and even dorsal'f in. The body is laterally compressed and covered with small scales,, The greater parts of the dorsal and anal fins are composed of spines . The caudal fin is rounded. The mouth is relatively large with small teeth present on the jaws, vomer and palatine bones, and on the tongue. Three lateral lines run the length of the body, the lower one is branched. The body is usually coloured a dark brownish-olive, marbled with black. There is a dark spot on the operculum and the fleshy tips on the anal and dorsal fin spines are orange or white. Juvenile fish are sometimes spotted with white. Rockfish can grow up to 300mm long; however, average size ranges between 100 and 200mm. These fish move with eel-like undulations.
DISTRIBUTION: General: A*quadridactylus is endemic to New Zealand and is widespread around our coasts. It is found in the intertidal zone on rocky shores, in tidepools or under loose rocks which may be exposed at low tide. Rockfish can also be found under scattered stones on intertidal mudflats. Local: This species is moderately common on the intertidal rock platforms in the Reserve.
FEEDING: This aggressive carnivore preys on a wide range of animals. Crabs are most important in the diet but isopods, amphipods, chitons, bivalves, gastropods, polychaete worms, bryozoans and small fish are also eaten. For small juveniles amphipods are the most important food item.
LIFE HISTORY: Age and growth: These fish can live for nine years and reach a maximum size of 300mm. Most growth is restricted to the summer months. Sexual maturity is reached at a size of 90-100mm in length, when the fish are 2-3 years old. 122
Acanthoclinus quadridactylus (D.xx.4; A.ix-x.3-45 V.i.3; P.14; CJ4J _
I i 20mm to 300mm
Mew Zealand dostribof ion Distribution within the Reserve
C9 frequent in the intertidal
a© w E z
S3P J PF 8 TF a EF SG 11 DB 1
Habitat type
V
Diet Life history patterns 123
Reproduction: Spawning occurs in pairs, between July and January, with the peak breeding activity occurring over September and Octoberc Demersal eggs are laid amongst the rocks of the intertidal shore. The male guards a gelatinous mass of 8,000 to 18,000 eggs for about 10 days, until all the eggs have hatched0 Immediately after spawning the eggs are bright yellow - the colour of the yolk. Within 5-6 days . this colour has changed to brown as the yolk is depleted by the developing embryo. The eggs are spherical with an average diameter of L43mm. Each contains one large oil droplet (diameter = 0 „ 28mm) and a variable number of smaller ones. The embryo develops rapidly with most major developments occurring within the first three days after fertilisation. Newly hatched larvae average 4.75mm in length- The yolk sac and primary oil globule are still present. They appear an irridescent green due to the developing scales * The anterior portion of the body is pigmented with stellate melanophores. The jaws are well formed and functional; however the larvae do not feed in the plankton until the second day after hatchingo Within 6 days the yolk sac has been completely reabsorbed and the larvae measure 5 2mm long, on average„ 11 day old larvae are about 5 o 5mm long* The larvae spend about three months in the plankton before settling,, Juveniles are first found on the shore around November, at a size of about 10mm long. 124
•amiSf Garanglda* jacks
This is a large and varied family of more than 200 species of pelagic fishes. Representatives are found in tropical and temperate seas throughout the world. The family is predominantly marine; however, a few species inhabit freshwaters. Carangids live near. the surface in open seas. They are powerful, active, fast-swimming fishes of moderate to large size. Typically, they are streamlined in shape and coloured green or blue on the dorsal surface and silvery on the belly. They superficially resemble the mackerel and tuna (family Scombridae) but they lack the finlet behind the dorsal and anal fins. There are usually two short spines in front of the anal fin. The tail stalk is narrow and, in some species., the lateral line is armoured with keeled scales. All species are carnivorous and some species are voracious hunters, feeding on smaller pelagic fishes. Carangids swim by rapid flexures of their V-shaped tails. The body is covered with small scales, allowing the fish to retain its flexibility which is important for fast swimming. Most carangids are widely distributed and almost all are valued food fishes. Trevally, Caranx georgianus; the jack mackerels, Trachurus novae-zelandiae and T Jdeetivis and the kingf ish,>- Seriota grandis, are taken commercially in New Zealand. All New Zealand carangids occur in the Reserve with the exception of the herring scad, T.declivis.
sea salmon
This is a small family found only in the South Pacific region, and contains only two species. Arripis trutta occurs in Australia and New Zealand and A,georgianus only occurs in Australia. These fast-swimming, schooling fishes are similar to the carangids in shape and colouring. Family characteristics are the long, single dorsal fin which is composed of 9 spines and 15-19 soft rays. The pelvic fins are made up of 1 spine and 5 rays and are situated a little behind the line of the pectoral fins. The body is covered with large scales which reduce the body flexibility and make movement more directed and unswerving in comparison with the carangids. The main source of power comes from the large tail. 125
Family: Carangidae
Sersola graodis - kingfish, northern kingfish
DESCRIPTION: The kingfish is a large, powerful fish with a streamlined, elliptical body» The dorsal surface is coloured deep blue which fades to silvery white on the undersurface. These two colours are separated by a longitudinal greenish-yellow stripe, which extends from the eye to the tail base and into the lobes of the caudal fin. The dorsal and anal fins are greenish and edged with yellow. The second dorsal fin is more developed than the first« The head and mouth are large. Small brush-like teeth are contained in each jaw. These fish can reach 2m in length and weigh as much as 50kg« The largest individuals seen in the Reserve are about 1m long* Kingfish are active during the day and characteristically live near the surface"in open seas. At night they cruise slowly, in offshore waterso These fish are able to ascend or dive rapidly through 75m of water. They possess well developed swim baldders to cope with the associated changes in pressure» The skull and body tissues are full of oil which provides a further aid to buoyancy, for deep water swimming.
DISTRIBUTION: General: S.grandis occurs in Australia and New Zealand» In New Zealand it is found around the North Island and ranges down the South Island to Bank5s Peninsula during the summer» Kingfish usually form surface schools of similar sized individuals. The largest fish appear to prefer offshore waters, usually only the small fish are found near the coasto Local: Schools of 3-25 fish are moderately common over the deeper waters of the Reserve, especially during the summer„
FEEDING: These fish are voracious roving carnivores. Fish constitute most of their diet; however, squid are also sometimes taken. Kingfish prey on small midwater or surface dwelling fish such as koheru, sweep, blue maomao, young trevally and demoiselles.
LIFE HISTORY: Little is known of their life history» Group spawning activity has been observed over midsummer but the exact .length of the spawning season is unknown. 126
SerioSa grandis (D.vi - vii J.34; A.ii.i.20-22; V.i.5,° P.21; C.17.)
Mew Zealand distribution Distribution within the Reserve
J midwater and surface
schools of 3-25 fish, J most abundant during
summer
RF 8 TF a EF ° SG a
Habitat type
Diet Life history patterns 127
Family: Carangidae
Decapterys toheru - koheru, yellowtail
DESCRIPTION: Koheru have an elongate body which is coloured blue-green on the back, yellow on the sides and silvery white on the belly. Juveniles are usually green-yellow in colour. The eyes are relatively large and have a well developed adipose lid. The general appearance is similar to that of the jack mackerel, Trachurus novae-zelandiae, but koheru differ by having a rounder body section, only a small number of scutes near the tail and a single finlet behind the soft lobes of the dorsal and anal fins. Dentition is weak and the teeth in the jaws are minute. The average length is 250-35Omm but koheru can grow to 450mm long. These fish are active during the day and are usually seen in large midwater or surface schools. Juveniles up to 100mm long, form schools of similar sized individuals. These schools are more tightly packed and move with greater co-ordination than the adult schools.
DISTRIBUTION: Generals D«koheru are found only in New Zealand. They occur from East Cape northwards. Adults are wide ranging and tend to prefer open waters. Juveniles are generally found in shallow coastal and harbour waters. Local: Midwater schools of 30-300 juveniles are moderately common in the Reserve, especially over the summer. Adult fish are rare.
FEEDING: Foraging occurs in loose schools, in midwater. Individuals move up and down in the water column snapping at planktonic organisms. Feeding appears to be indiscriminant, the fish taking whatever animals are present. Juveniles from the Reserve, were found to be eating mainly copepods, mysids euphausid larvae and crab larvae. Larger fish also feed predominantly on zooplankton? however, small crabs and other bottom dwelling animals are occasionally taken.
LIFE HISTORY: Koheru live to a maximum age of 10 years. Initially growth is rapid, the fish reaching • lengths around 200mm, 320mm and 370mm at the ages of 1, 2 and 3 years respectively. Age and size at maturity is_not known Group spawning has been reported in midwater during the summer. Diet Life history patterns 129
Family: Carangidae
Trachurus novae-zelandiae - horse mackerel
(Traohurus = rough tailed)
DESCRIPTION: This fish is similar in appearance to D.koheru* It can be distinguished by the row of relatively large, overlapping bony scutes which cover the entire lateral line on both sides of the body. The scutes become much heavier near the tail where they form a sharp keel. The snout is long and pointed and the lower jaw is slightly longer than the upper. Above the lateral line this fish is a dark greenish-blue. Below the line this fades to yellow and then to silvery white on the belly.
Maximum size reached is 440mm long. The average length is 300-350mmo Horse mackerel are diurnally active, fast swimming fishes. Juveniles occur in groups and at about 240mm in length they start to form schools. Schooling is most pronounced in late winter an spring, when they form large aggregations. They normally swim close to the surface, but when not schooling they rest on the bottom. At night horse mackerel form dense packs in open waters, at depths of 40-60m.
DISTRIBUTION: General: This species occurs in Australia, New Zealand, South- east Asia and Japan. They are found throughout New Zealand. Large schools of several hundred fish are found in_open seas: while smaller schools enter harbours and estuaries. Juveniles tend to occur in small groups, in shallow water. Local: Schools of 30-100 small fish are common in the Reserve over the summer months. Juveniles 10-20mm long, are also often seen in surface waters, sheltering around buoys, jellyfish and drift material.
FEEDING: Small individuals feed mainly on larval crustacea found in the Plankton. Larger horse-mackerel feed on small fish, such as pilchards, sprats and smaller horse mackerel, and also squid, octopus, swimming crabs and shrimps.
LIFE HISTORY: These fish can live for 22 years. They take 3-4 years to reach a size of 240-280mm. The size and age at maturity are not known. Little is known of the breeding habits of this species. They are likely to spawn in groups, in the summer, similar to other members of the family. Ripe male and females have been sampled in February. 130
Trachurus novae - zelandiae (D.viii J,30 ~ 35; A.ii.i, 28-30; V. i.5> P.21; C-17; L.I.74-80.)
ribution within the Reserve
~" — • ——— V
midwater and surface
schools of 30 - 100 juveniles
common over summer
1 RF ' TF ' EF 1 SG 1 DR 1
Habitat type
Diet Life history patterns 131
Family: Carangidae
Caranx georgianus - trevaiiy
DESCRIPTION: Trevaiiy are easily distinguished by their body shape and colour, the shape of the lateral line, the separate dorsal fins and the row of 18-22 bony scutes on each side of the caudal peduncle. The body is deeper and more compressed than the other carangids. As the fish grow the head becomes humped and the scutes become more conspicuous. The mouth . is large with a single row of conical teeth in each jaw and fine teeth on the vomer and palatine bones and the tongue. Adults are coloured an iridescent blue or green on the back, which gradually pales to become silvery on the ventral surface. There is a dark spot on the operculum and the anterior dorsal fin is edged with black. Juveniles, to about 200mm long, are silvery , with a yellow stripe running horizontally along the midline, from halfway the body to the tail base. Some have pale vertical bars along the side of the body. Average size for this fish is 350-500mm; however, individuals can grow to 750mm long and weigh about 7kg.
DISTRIBUTION: General: C.georgianus occurs in New Zealand, southern Australia and around the Lord Howe, Norfolk and Kermadec Islands. In New Zealand trevaiiy are largely confined to northern waters, although they may reach south to Otago in the summer. Juveniles (50-200mm long) are usually found in midwater groups in shallow coastal waters. Adults, 200-500mm long, are more wide ranging and form large, closely packed schools in offshore waters. These are known by fishermen as 1 school trevaiiy1. The even larger, older fish are found in small groups, in deep waters around headlands and in deep bays. Local: Juvenile trevaiiy are common in the Reserve over summer. They are found in small groups of 10-30 fish , sometimes accompanying groups of blue rnaomao or koheru. Adults are rarely seen.
FEEDING: Juveniles feed chiefly on small crustacea, amphipods and euphausids taken from the lower and middle parts of the water column, or from the bottom. 'School trevaiiy are typically fast-swimming, pelagic foragers. They feed in the middle and surface waters on euphausids and other planktonic organisms. Occasionally they forage* among the soft bottom 132
Caranx georgianus (D.vii.1,27; A:ii.1,22; V.i.5; P.19; C.17. )
-I 50 mm to 750mm V.
New Zealand distribution Distribution within the Reserve r
m«? juveniles in groups of mo j= 10 - 30 common over summer hm SBR 1 RF 1 TF 1 EF 1 SG 1 DR Habitat type Diet Life history patterns 133 sediments, taking mouthfuls of sand and expelling it through the gills and so sifting out any small animal, such as amphipods and gastropods. LIFE HISTORY: Age and growth: Trevally can live for about 40 years - They grow at a moderate rate for their first four years, taking about 5 years to reach the size of sexual maturity (320-370mm long). Afterwards, growth slows markedly. Reproduction: Spawning has not been observed. However, examination of the gonads indicates that trevally are serial spawners i.e. they spawn several times each breeding season, and that the spawning season occurs over the summer and is usually completed by March. These fish do not appear to have defined spawning grounds, nor do they school to spawn. Trevally eggs are pelagic. They hatch about 28 hours after fertilisation, and the larvae settle after 2-3 months in the plankton. Juvenile fish about 40mm long, are found in inshore areas, including estuaries and harbours. This page has intentionally been left blank 135 Family: Cheilodactylidae Arripis trutta - kahawai {Arripis = scales without furrows trutta - refers to the trout-like appearance) DESCRIPTION: This fast-swimming, schooling fish is similar to the carangids in shape and colouring. The body is elongate and moderately compressed, but quite stocky» The head is large with a prominent mouth Adults have a greenish-grey back which is covered with brown spots. The undersurface is silvery white. Young fish up to 250mm long, have in addition, vertical rows of dark spots below the lateral line. Most of these are lost as the fish grows. These fish can grow up to 750mm in length and weigh as much as 900g, but the average size is 400-500mm in length and 100-200g in weight. Kahawai are diurnal and are usually found in midwater schools. They often occur in mixed schools with trevally, jack mackerel, kingfish and blue mackerel. DISTRIBUTION: General: Kahawai are found in New Zealand and in cool south- east Australian seas. They are common fish around the North Island of New Zealand, but are relatively rare in the south, extending only to Otago.. These fish are most abundant in open, offshore waters, where they form schools of 200 or more individuals. They are also found in coastal waters and will move up river estuaries at high tide, especially during the warmer months of the year. Local: A.trutta is moderately common in the Reserve. They form small, midwater schools of up to 50 fish. FEEDING: This species is a roving, midwater predator taking small animals of suitable size. Small kahawai eat mainly planktonic copepods. At a size of about 100mm the diet changes to consist predominantly of small benthic fish. The presence of some benthic crustacea in the diet indicates some bottom feeding occurs. Both the jaw and pharyngeal teeth are hooked for seizing and holding prey, which is then swallowed whole. 136 ArrSpis trutta (D.ix.15-17; A.iii.10; V.i.5; P. 16; C.17.) Distribution within the Reserve New Zealand distribution r m hm CO midwater and surface «oM o JZ schools up to 50 fish, a» Q) CL frequent 1 8 1 1 1 1 SBR RF TF EF SG DR Habitat type V. Diet Life history patterns 137 LIFE HISTORY: Kahawai can live for 26 years. They take 4-5 years to reach the size at which they mature, 350-400mm. Mass spawning occurs in midwater, in late spring and summer. The eggs, which are 0.90-0.98mm in diameter, are found in surface waters over the summer. The eggs have a sculptured chorion and a non-segmented yolk which contains a single oil droplet, 0.24-0.28mm in diameter. Embryonic development is rapid and the larvae hatch within 40 hours of fertilisation. No information is available on the period of juvenile settlement. 141 Family Sparidae - porgies and sea bream Most of the 100 or so species in this family live in tropical and subtropical seas. A few species range into temperate regions. This group of small to moderate sized fish is world wide in its distribution. Sea bream are typicall silvery coloured fish and inhabit coastal and offshore waters over coral reefs, rocky reefs and sandy bottoms. They are omnivorous and usually travel in schools or loose groups. Distinguishing characteristics are the oval shaped and laterally compressed body which is deep in the region in front of the dorsal, the single dorsal fin which is supported by strong spines in the anterior portion and soft, branched rays at the rear, and the large, distinct scales which cover the body and head. The pelvic fins are composed of 1 spine and 5 soft rays The anal fin always has 3 spines, but a variable number of soft rays. There are no spines present on the gill cover. The teeth in the jaws are well developed and specialised to serve the particular feeding habits of the species. There are no teeth on the bones on the roof of the mouth. Scientific classification within this group relies heavily on the dentition of these fish. Only one sparid is found in New Zealand waters, Chrysophrys auratus. This species is commonly called 1 snapper1; however, in other countries this is the usual common name for species belonging to the family, Lutjanidae. C. auratus is very important to New Zealand commercially, comprising about one third of our total annual catch. New Zealand catch reaches about 14,000 tonnes anually. Foreign catch is usually also several thousand tonnes. 139 Family: Cheilodactylidae Chrysophrys auratus . - snapper DESCRIPTION: The snapper is a typical sea bream with a _deep___and .moderately compressed body, an arched dorsal profile and a large bony head» Large snapper become relatively elongate with a heavy, blunt head and they often have and enlarged bony crest on the forehead. The basic body colour of these fish varies with habitat: Fish from rocky areas tend to be reddish bronze on the back and sides, whereas those from soft muddy bottoms are a pale silvery pink. This colouring fades to silvery white on the belly. There is also a random pattern of luminescent blue spots on the back and sides and the hind margin of the tail is black. Spawning males usually develop black patches under the chin. Juveniles are similarly coloured but often also have 5-6 dark vertical bars spaced along the body. The average length of these fish is 300-500mm; however they can grow up to 900mm long and weigh as much as 16kg. These fish are active during the day. At night they rest upright, their fins erect, over open rocky or sandy bottoms, or they may shelter among the seaweed. In coastal areas like the Reserve, the social organisation adopted appears to depend on the distribution and abundance of food sources. Small fish may aggregate in large groups of up to 70 fish, or up to about 450mm in length they may defend small territories from other similar- sized individuals. Large snapper have large overlapping home ranges. Little is known of the social organistaion of these fish in offshore or harbour populations. DISTRIBUTION: General: C.auratus is most abundant in New Zealand along the east and west coasts of the North Island with numbers dropping off around the northern parts of the South Island. This species is probably the same as the Australian species of snapper previously described as C.unicolov and C.guttulatus. There is evidence of two stocks occurring in New Zealand, separated by North Cape. The fish are similar in shape and colouring but differ in body chemistry, indicating that there is little interbreeding. Growth rates also differ with the fish on 'the west coast growing faster and larger than those on the east. 140 Chrysophrys auratus (D.xal.10; A.iii.8; V.i.5; R15; C.17; LI.54-55.) 75mm to 900 mm V New Zealand distribution Distribution within the Reserve r 1250-1 1 ioocH o m 750- m a 500- m n i 250 H JZZZL JZ1 SBR RF TF 8 EF SG DR Habitat type Diet Life history patterns Bivalves 11 % Fish 3-5% Chitons 3-5% spawning Ophiuroids 3% Hermit crabs 3% eggs juveniles 141 Snapper live near the bottom in a wide variety of habitats ranging from offshore sandy and muddy bottoms to the coastal rocky reefs and weedbeds and to the shallow harbours and muddy creeks. Adults range to depths of 200m, but are uncommon below 100m. Juveniles are not usually found at depths greater than 40m. The greatest concentrations of adult snapper occur in the Hauraki gulf. This is also one of the most important known spawning grounds and the largest nursery area. Snapper migrations are known to occur; however the movement pattern are still poorly known. The general pattern appears to be that during the winter small fish move to open waters then return to inshore waters in spring. These movements are later .modified by spawning migrations/ Before and during spawning mature fish assemble in large groups in the centre of bays and gulfs. After spawning they disperse firstly to inshore feeding grounds (summer and autumn) and then to offshore winter grounds. The large old snapper appear to remain in inshore waters over the winter. Local: Snapper are found in all habitat types in the Reserve. Largest numbers occur over the summer in the turf flat and sponge garden habitats, where densities reach 900-1,200 fish per hectare. The majority of these fish are juveniles less than 150mm in length. In the winter densities in these habitats drop to 6-15 fish per ha. In the other habitats snapper densities range between 50 and 250 fish per ha. However, there appears to be little seasonal variation in densities within these habitats. The old large fish are usually found close inshore in broken rock areas. FEEDING: Snapper are carnivorous and feed on a wide range of sedentary and mobile animals. Juveniles usually forage amongst the coralline turf, eating mostly amphipods, ostracods and copepods. As they grow the fish gradually change to feeding on rocky areas, taking crabs, hermit crabs and bivalves. Fish about 450mm long are. able to eat small sea urchins, the larger gastropods, brittlestars, large hermit crabs and small fish. The teeth are well developed and differentiated to suit the diet. Prey is selected visually and wrenched off the the substratum using the sharp pointed foreteeth, and then is crushed by the blunt molariform hindteeth. LIFE HISTORY: Age and growth: Snapper may live for up to 60 years. Growth 142 Changing body proportions with size. A: a larval snapper about 13mm long. B: a small deep-bodied adult about 300mm long. C: a large adult about 750mm long. 143 varies markedly with location, e.g. a fish measuring 700mm long can be 20-60 years old. In general, fish about 150mm long and 4-10 years old and those 150-300mm long, the size most commonly taken by fishermen, are 10-30 years old. At Goat Island Bay snapper reach about 140mm by the end of their first year and are about 270mm long when they are about 4 years old. Maturity is reached when the fish are about 230mm long. In the Reserve they are 3-4 years old at this size. Reproduction: Spawning occurs between October and February and o appears to correspond with water surface temperatures of 18 C. Peak spawning activity takes place in December and January. Large groups of fish drift lazily just below the water surface, barely moving except to roll over and discharge their gametes into the water. All fish in the group spawn at the same time. Snapper are serial spawners, producing many batches of gametes and spawning several times in one season. Eggs and development: The eggs range in diameter from 0.86 to 0.97mm. They are spherical, with a smooth chorion and a non-segmented yolk. The yolk contains one oil droplet 0.25mm in diameter. The eggs are found in the plankton over the summer. They hatch into pelagic larvae only 1-2 days after being spawned. Initially the larvae are planktonic. Those 10-20mm long are not found in the plankton and are thought to descend to the bottom and move inshore. At 25mm in length and a month or so old they are exact miniatures of the adult fish. Juveniles are found where food and shelter are plentiful (e.g. near a seaweed zone or reef) or in deeper sheltered waters (10-20m). They also occur in channels between mudbanks and sand bars and in shallow tidal harbours and bays. Juvenile snapper are first observed in the Reserve in January, at a size of 30-40mm long. 144 Family Mullidae - goatfishes and red mullets Goatfish are carnivorous, small to moderate sized fishes. They are characterised by a pair of long barbels on the chin, an elongated body and two well separated dorsal fins. The first dorsal fin consists entirely of spines. The second is soft-rayed. Most species in this family are pinkish in colour and turn bright red when excited. This is a group of predominantly tropical and subtropical marine fishes. Some species are temperate and have been known to enter esturies. The 50 or so goatfish species live in shallow waters near rocky or coral reefs. They are typically bottom dwellers, swimming close to the substratum, with their highly sensitive barbels constantly in motion in their search for food. In some species individuals for schools or aggregations whereas in others the fish are solitary. Most species in this family are valued food fishes. However, none of the New Zealand species are caught commercially. Three species of goatfish are found in New Zealand. The red mullet, Upeneichthys porosus, is one of the most abundant reef fish in north-eastern New Zealand. The other two species have been discovered relatively recently on the northland coast and around the Poor Knights Islands. These are the black spot goatfish, Parapeneus porphyreus, and an undescribed species, the bar-tailed goatfish, Upeneus sp. The pattern of dentition separates these three genera: Upeneus - teeth are present in the jaws and on the vomer and palatine bones. Upeneicthy s - there are no teeth on the palatine bones. The teeth in the jaws are short and conical, forming two rows in the front and one at each side. Parapeneus - there are no teeth on the palatine bones. There is a single series of strong, acute teeth in the jaws. 145 Family: Cheilodactylidae Upenelchthys porosus - goatfish, red mullet DESCRIPTION: Goatfish are distinguished from other reef fishes by the pair of sensory barbels under the chin, the elongate, slightly compressed body and the steeply sloping forehead. The body is covered with large scales. The anal fin is situated directly opposite the second dorsal fin. Both are of a similar shape. Females and juveniles are drab coloured fish with a whitish body and brown markings on the head and back. The males are more brightly coloured. Their basic colour is red which is patterned with blue. The fins are also brightly coloured red and blue. Goatfish exhibit a great deal of individual variation in their colouring. They also have the ability to change colour rapidly, depending on their surroundings and circumstance. These fish average 100-250mm in length, but they can grow up to 450mm long. The largest specimen recorded from the Reserve was 350mm long and weighed 420g. Goatfish are diurnal and are usually seen feeding or resting on the. bottom. At night they can be found resting on the open substratum, coloured a brillant red. Individuals are usually solitary on rocky grounds, but where there are large turf or sandy flats they form groups of up to 30 fish. These groups usually consist of 2-3 males, 5-6 females and several juveniles. Both the groups and solitary individuals are roving in habit, but tend to stay in the same general area. DISTRIBUTION: General: U. porosus occur in New Zealand and Australia. They are widely distributed around the North Island and in the warm waters of the South Island,of New Zealand. Local: Goatfish. are one of the most common fish in the Reserve. They occur in all habitat types, but are most abundant on the deep reefs where they reach densities of about 2,000 fish per hectare. They are also found in high densities in the turf flat and sponge garden habitats, densities ranging between 450 and 850 fish per ha. FEEDING: Goatfish are bottom foragers, searching out food from amongst the sand and encrusting growth. As the fish moves slowly over the substratum, the long barbels which are provided with taste buds, flit rapidly over the 146 Upeneichthys porosus (D.wiii.i.8; A.ii.6; V.i.5; P.15-16; C.15; LI.28-30.) to 450mm 45mm V. Distribution within the Reserve New Zealand distribution r 2500-1 m 2000H o© v. ^ 1500-j m 1000H 0w n v 1 500 / 'A A. y f i • I f « t ' ' 'A- 1 "—" a ' • SBR ' RF ' TF ' EF ' SG DR Habitat type Diet Life history patterns Amphipods spawning 30% Bivalves 2% juveniles Polychaetes 1% Crabs 67% 147 sand in front of the mouth, probing for soft-bodied invertebrates. The main food items taken are small crustacea such as amphipods and crabs. The tiny teeth of the goatfish are not suited for crushing large, hard-shelled animals. LIFE HISTORY: Age and growth: The life span of this species is unknown« Juveniles are first observed at a size of 10-20mm. By the end of their first year these fish have reached about 130mm in length. After this growth slows, and 2 year old fish measure about 160mm in length. Reproduction: The length of the breeding season is uncertain. Courting behaviour can be observed frequently during November and December. Pair spawning has been observed in early February, at dusk. The brightly coloured male courts the female, moving about her in circles, diplaying his bright dorsal fins. The pair move side by side up into the water column, about 2m off the bottom. They roll sideways, ventral surfaces opposed, and release their gametes into the water. The pair separate immediately after spawning. Newly settled juveniles are first seen in the field over late January and early February. Family Pempheridae - sweepers The pempherids are a group of Indo-Pacific marine fishes. They are found in the coastal waters of tropical and temperate seas, usually in fairly deep water. These are small to moderate sized fishes. The body is ovoid to elliptical and strongly compressed in form. The single dorsal fin is usually short-based whereas the anal fin has a relatively long base. Small to moderate scales cover the body and extend onto the head and vertical fins. The lateral line is complete and continues onto the caudal fin. These fish typically have a short, blunt head and an oblique, slightly protractile mouth. Teeth are present on the jaws and the vomer and palatine bones. The eye may be large with no eyelid, or moderate in f size with an adipose eyelid. Three species are found in New Zealand. Only the bigeye, Perrrpheris adspersa, occurs in the Reserve. The other two species are Pempheris