Old Wife
Enoplosus armatus
- Group: Other
- Typical depth: to 90 m
- Max size: 50 cm
- For divers: dangerous
- IUCN status: LC
Tall and flag like with bold dark bands, the old wife is named for the grinding sound it makes with its teeth when caught. Its sharp dorsal and pelvic spines can deliver a venomous wound, so it is handled carefully, and it occurs in schools, pairs or alone over reefs, estuaries and seagrass.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Centrarchiformes › Enoplosidae › Enoplosus
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 280685.
FAQ
- How deep does the Old Wife live?
- The Old Wife (Enoplosus armatus) is typically found at to 90 m.
- Is the Old Wife dangerous to divers?
- The Old Wife can be dangerous; divers should keep their distance.
- How big does the Old Wife get?
- The Old Wife grows to about 50 cm.