Western Crested Morwong

Goniistius gibbosus

The Western Crested Morwong is a reef-associated fish found in the temperate waters of the Eastern Indian Ocean and Southeast Pacific, particularly around Western Australia, Kermadec Island, and Easter Island. It inhabits shallow protected reef and sandy areas and can sometimes be found in estuaries. Divers are likely to encounter this species at depths ranging from 1 to 20 meters. This fish can be identified by its distinctive coloration and patterning. It has a white body adorned with mostly oblique black bands. Notably, there are three short bands across its forehead and a prominent band extending from each eye to the base of the pectoral fin. The pectoral fins are yellow, while the other fins are greyish with darker margins. The Western Crested Morwong can grow up to 30 cm in length. The Western Crested Morwong is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.