Common name: Painted morwong

General information

The Barred Morwong, also known as the Magpie Morwong or Magpie Perch, is a species of marine fish belonging to the family Cheilodactylidae. It is known for its distinctive black and white barred coloration, which makes it a visually appealing addition to large marine aquariums. This species is not as common in the aquarium trade as some other marine fish, but it can be a rewarding challenge for experienced aquarists.

Care

Barred Morwongs require a spacious aquarium with plenty of rockwork and hiding places to feel secure. They are generally peaceful but can become territorial with age, so they should be housed with other non-aggressive tank mates. A varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and fish flesh is essential for their health. Due to their larger size, they are not suitable for small or nano reef systems.

Reproduction

In the wild, Barred Morwongs are known to form spawning aggregations, but breeding in captivity is rare. Little is known about their reproductive habits in home aquariums, and successful captive breeding has not been widely documented.

Habitat

The Barred Morwong is native to the coastal waters of southern Australia, including Tasmania. They are typically found in rocky reef environments and kelp forests, where they can be seen grazing on invertebrates. In the wild, they are known to inhabit depths ranging from shallow waters to over 50 meters.