Bovichtus angustifrons Regan, 1913

Head and Body Shape

Bovichtus angustifrons has a large head and a thick anterior body, with the body tapering toward the caudal fin. It has a distinct spine at the upper angle of the opercular margin, large eyes, and large pelvic fins that originate under and in front of the pectoral fins.

Scales

This species has no scales.

Fin Structure

The first dorsal fin contains 8 spines, the second dorsal fin has 18 to 19 soft rays, and the anal fin has 18 soft rays.

Maximum Length

It reaches a maximum total length of 28 centimeters (11 inches).

Adult Coloration

This is a camouflaged species that can vary in color from pale bluish-grey to pale brown, with darker reddish to brown mottling, spotting, or blotching.

Juvenile Coloration

Juvenile Bovichtus angustifrons are a dull grey-brown color.

Distribution Range

This species is endemic to southern Australia, where it is found along the coast from Green Cape in southern New South Wales to around Ceduna in the Great Australian Bight, South Australia. It also occurs around Tasmania.

Habitat

It inhabits shallow rocky reefs, and is frequently seen in tidepools and around jetty pylons.

Depth Range

It lives at depths of up to 15 meters (49 feet).