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dpi noteBarramundi cod (humpback cod)
Cromileptes altivelis

Officers of DPI Fisheries

barramundi cod

This is a regulated fish. See Recreational fishing rules in Queensland - Freshwater and Tidal waters  for the current regulations.

Description

The head, nape and shoulders of the barramundi cod closely resembles that of barramundi, hence its name. Barramundi cod are sexually mature at 39cm and grow up to 70 cm (5kg). They are recognised by their profile and distinctive colouration. These fish typically have a small head humped backs and characteristic black spots, with a creamy-grey background. When spooked barramundi cod develop a fright colouration, being brownish blotches over the body.

Habitat/distribution

The barramundi cod is a marine species, and prefers reef environments along the Great Barrier Reef from the Capricorn-Bunker reef groups in central Queensland to the Torres Strait. Large barramundi cod commonly allow themselves to become tide-bound in the shallow coral pools of Barrier Reef cays, such as the Fairy Pools on Heron Island's north-eastern reef-flat or those on the northern face of Wistari Reef. It can be found at depths around 40m.

Suggested further reading

Department of Primary Industries. (2002). Fish Guide. Saltwater, Freshwater and Noxious Species. The Great Outdoors Publications, Brisbane.

Grant, E.M. (2002). Grant's Guide To Fishes. E.M. Grant Pty Limited, Brisbane.

Note: Some information in this publication may change from time to time (especially size and in-possession limits). You should contact your nearest Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol or the DPI&F Business Information Centre (13 25 23) for latest fisheries regulations and information.

This DPI Note is also published on the DPI&F's PrimeNotes CD-ROM.

Information contained in this publication is provided as general advice only. For application to specific circumstances, professional advice should be sought. The Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries Queensland has taken all reasonable steps to ensure the information in this publication is accurate at the time of publication. Readers should ensure that they make appropriate inquiries to determine whether new information is available on the particular subject matter.

File No: f00041
Last reviewed December 2003


 

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