Fingermark (spotted-scale sea perch )
Lutjanus johnii
Officers of the DPI Fisheries
This is a regulated fish. See Recreational fishing rules in Queensland - Tidal waters for the current regulations.
Description
Adults of this species range in colour from dark orange-red over the back and upper-flanks to red-brown and olive-brown, depending on their habitat. They are easily identified by the large dusky-red blotch or fingermark, lying immediately beneath the soft dorsal fin. The colour of this blotch varies depending on the mood of the fish. They are a large species, growing up to 90cm.
Habitat/distribution
Fingermark can often be found in inshore waters, mangrove areas and around headlands. This tropical species ranges along the coasts of Queensland, the Gulf of Carpentaria, the Northern Territory and tropical Western Australia, frequently entering mangrove-lined creeks and estuaries. In a few areas in Queensland, such as reefs off Townsville and Cairns, they may be quite common.
Further information
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: f00055
Last
reviewed December 2003
