Western Blue Groper
Achoerodus gouldii
- Group: Other
- Typical depth: 5–65 m
- Max size: 1.8 m
- For divers: safe
- IUCN status: VU
The largest wrasse in Australian waters, this groper reaches nearly two metres on the rocky reefs of the southern shelf, crushing crabs, molluscs and starfish with strong jaws. Every individual begins life as a female and the largest later turn male, taking on the deep blue of a dominant fish. Slow growing and easily targeted, its numbers have fallen enough to leave it vulnerable.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Eupercaria incertae sedis › Labridae › Achoerodus
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 279497.
FAQ
- How deep does the Western Blue Groper live?
- The Western Blue Groper (Achoerodus gouldii) is typically found at 5–65 m.
- Is the Western Blue Groper dangerous to divers?
- The Western Blue Groper is harmless to divers.
- How big does the Western Blue Groper get?
- The Western Blue Groper grows to about 1.8 m.