Bluefin Leatherjacket

Thamnaconus degeni

Thamnaconus degeni - Bluefin Leatherjacket
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Size: 30 cm

Distribution: All SA coastal and gulf waters, and offshore reefs

Habitat: Rocky reef

Depth: Subtidal from 5+ metres. Usually deeper than 10m

Thamnaconus degeni - Bluefin Leatherjacket
Thamnaconus degeni - Bluefin Leatherjacket

Usually a deeper water species occurring below 10m, juveniles of this species are occasionally encountered in shallow water. The Bluefin Leatheracket is a uniform light grey in colour, with a pattern of electric blue lines and spots, mostly on the top half of the body. As its name suggests, it also has blue fins. With this colouration, and its distinctive long snout, it is not usually mistaken for other species.