Morwong (Red) Cheilodactylus fuscus
Distribution - Red morwong are confined to the east coast of Australia, from southern Queensland to Bass Straight. They are common in NSW waters, occurring in shallow coastal waters to a depth of approximately 30 metres.
Size - Maximum of approximately 4kg and 65cm in length.
Characteristics - The upper body varies from red to pale brown in colour. Juveniles are uniformly red, while adults have a silvery/white lower half. Red morwong have a small pair of horns in front of their eyes.
Confusing species - Occasionally confused with the banded morwong (Cheilodactylus spectabilis), which occurs in the southern range of red morwong, however, they are easily separated as the banded morwong does not have a pair of small horns in front of its eyes.