The Magpie Perch (Cheilodactylus nigripes) is also commonly referred to as the ‘Magpie Morwong’ and belongs to the Morwong family Cheilodactylidae. This species can be found in the temperate waters of southern Australia from Albany in Western Australia to Kiama in southern New South Wales. It is occasionally found in the waters of Tasmania and has also been recorded in northern New Zealand. The Magpie Perch has two distinct dark black bands that run horizontally across the white body. Larger adults can change their colouration quickly and the second bar can be turned a very dull grey colour. Juveniles can be distinguished by red colouration on their tail which turns darker as the fish ages.
This species is known to feed on small invertebrates that are sucked up off the bottom as the Magpie Perch sifts through the sediment for food. Juveniles can often be found in seagrass beds whilst the adults are more common on rocky reefs or under jetties. It can be found down to depths of 60 metres. The Magpie Perch (Cheilodactylus nigripes) grows to a maximum length of approximately 40cm.
