Common names
Freycinet's leatherjacket, Grey leatherjacket, Orange-spotted leatherjacket, Reef leatherjacket, Six-spine leatherjacket, Six-spined leatherjacket, Skottowe's leatherjacket, Variable leatherjacket
Sixspine leatherjacket
Meuschenia freycineti
- Saltwater
- Least concern
Max length23.5 in
Length typeTotal Length
Max weight5 lb 8 oz
Depth range4 - 328 ft
Water typeSaltwater
Fish info
IUCN Vulnerability status
Short description
These fish have a lengthy, moderately deep, and compressed body, featuring a tail base adorned with two to four pairs of curved spines on each side. In males, these spines are notably larger than in females. Two distinct dorsal fins are present: the first, is a prominent spine with serrations along the rear edges, followed by a tiny second spine. Adults, especially males, exhibit two to four pairs of curved spines on each side of the tail base. Both males and females possess a noticeable dark crescent-shaped band near the hind margin of the tail. Males are characterized by a bluish hue with fine blue lines and spots on the head, along with blue lines along the bases of the dorsal and anal fins. They often display a large yellow-to-orange patch or indistinct yellow blotches on the sides. In contrast, females and juveniles showcase a palette of pale greenish, yellow, or brown shades. They bear blue lines and spots on the head, accompanied by several broad dark stripes along the sides. These distinct markings set them apart within their aquatic environment.
Habitat
Found on shallow to deep reefs in bays, harbours and along the coast in depths, juveniles are common in sheltered areas, especially seagrass beds.
Distribution
Endemic to temperate waters of southern Australia, from south of Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, to Jurien Bay, Western Australia, and around Tasmania; also recorded from Lord Howe Island in the Tasman Sea.
Behaviour
They feed on benthic invertebrates, including hydroids, molluscs, crustaceans and polychaetes, as well as consuming some epiphytic algae.
Edibility
Leatherjackets have white, sweet, firm and slightly moist flesh and make very good to excellent food fish.
Lure suggestion
They have small mouths so if targeting them you need to use very small baits or soft plastics. Leatherjackets have very sharp teeth, so handle them with care. At times they will bite through your leader occasionally. Good bait: small pieces of prawn, pilchard, mullet, silver whiting, mussel, octopus, worms & squid.
Similar species
Other similar species
Yellowfin leatherjacket, Toothbrush leatherjacket, Largescale leatherjacket, Horseshoe leatherjacket, Rough leatherjacket, Bridled leatherjacket, Other leatherjacket species