Yellow-Banded Perch

Acanthistius cinctus

The yellow-banded perch (Acanthistius cinctus), also known as the yellowbanded wirrah, is a species of serranid fish in the family Serranidae. Adults reach up to 45 cm in length and display a dark brown to grey body with 5-6 prominent yellow or golden vertical bands across the flanks. They have a robust, laterally compressed body with a large head and mouth. This species inhabits rocky reefs, reef drop-offs, and caves at depths of 10-100 meters along the coast of eastern Australia and northern New Zealand. They are typically solitary and territorial, often found resting in or near caves and overhangs. Yellow-banded perch are carnivorous, feeding on small fish, crustaceans, and other invertebrates. They are relatively approachable and curious, often allowing divers to observe them closely. Their bold banding pattern makes them immediately recognizable and a rewarding find on temperate rocky reefs.