Blue Drummer

Girella cyanea

Blue Drummer, also known as Australian bluefish, are found in the inshore waters of the southwest Pacific, particularly along the east coast of Australia, Norfolk Island, and New Zealand's North and Kermadec Islands. They inhabit rocky reefs and are typically seen at depths ranging from 5 to 30 meters, although most are found shallower than 40 meters. Juveniles often reside in tidal pools before joining schools over reef areas as adults. These fish are easily recognized by their blue coloration with yellow spots, which can turn greyish-green after death. They have a distinctive ovate body shape, small beak-like mouths, and large scales. The dorsal fin is spinous with low spines, followed by a higher soft dorsal fin. Blue Drummers are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of marine life including crustaceans, mollusks, and smaller fish, as well as calcareous seaweeds and marine worms. They are most active during dawn and dusk. As fast-growing and long-lived fish, they can live up to 41 years and reach sexual maturity between 2 and 5 years of age. Conservation efforts in New South Wales include fishing closures to protect their populations, with strict penalties for illegal fishing.