Herring Cale

Olisthops cyanomelas

Olisthops cyanomelas - Herring Cale
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Size: 50 cm

Distribution: All SA coastal and gulf waters

Habitat: Macroalgae, rocky reef

Depth: Subtidal to 10+ metres

This large weed whiting can be found amongst Ecklonia kelp, swimming in a distinctive snake-like manner. This species is sexually dimorphic, able to change from female to male, taking on a different appearance. Female Herring Cale are a marbled green/brown, while males are a more uniform black, grey or dark blue, with neon blue lines on the top and bottom edges of their tails.