Distribution: All coastal and gulf waters west of the Coorong
Habitat: Sandy areas of rocky reef
Depth: Usually deeper than 10 metres
This gurnard perch is usually found in deeper waters, although ocean conditions can drive it into shallower waters from time to time. It is a reddish-cream in colour, with brown blotches, including a prominent blotch behind the operculum that extends up onto the dorsal fin. It is difficult to distinguish from other Neosebastes species, especially N. scorpaenoides, although its shorter first dorsal spine, reddish colouration, and spotted tail band (as opposed to the more solid band at the rear of N. scorpaenoides' tail) can help to differentiate it.
