Allomycterus pilatus Whitley, 1931

Scientific Classification and Common Name

Allomycterus pilatus, commonly known as the deepwater burrfish, is a porcupinefish that belongs to the family Diodontidae.

Geographic Distribution

This species can be found in waters off southern Australia, central and northern New Zealand, and in the Tasman Sea.

Depth Range and Habitat

It lives at depths between 40 meters (131 feet) and 270 meters (886 feet) in areas beyond the continental shelf.

Maximum Recorded Size

The maximum recorded total length for this species is 50 centimeters (19.7 inches).

Interaction with Fishing Gear

It is reported that deepwater burrfish are easily entangled in nets, because of their body spines and their ability to inflate their bodies.

Genus Status

Allomycterus pilatus is the only known species in its monotypic genus Allomycterus.