A diverse group of about 230 species known as Grinners or Lizardfish grouped together due to the structure of their gill arches. There are still many arguments about whether this group of fish should be further separated, but luckily all the species in Sydney look fairly similar.
They are usually seen resting on rocks or on the sandy floor. They have long bodies and perch with their heads lifted slightly upwards showing their large mouth and teeth (hence their name 'Grinners').
They are usually seen resting on rocks or on the sandy floor. They have long bodies and perch with their heads lifted slightly upwards showing their large mouth and teeth (hence their name 'Grinners').
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Lizardfish have been on this planet in various forms for over a 100 million years, compared to humans who are estimated to have only evolved from our apelike ancestors 6 million years ago. See http://trieboldpaleontology.com/cimolichthys.html to see depictions of the extinct species Cimolichthys Nepaholica that could grow to 1.5m in length! Imagine that?!
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One species within this family is named after Sergeant William Baker (Governor Phillip’s orderly sergeant) who was part of the first fleet coming to Australia to set up the first European colony to the now city of Sydney.
This is a common family of fish in Sydney seen during most dives and at most locations. In Sydney there are two families of grinners/lizardfish that can be seen as described below. More information and pictures of these species are available in the links below:
This is a common family of fish in Sydney seen during most dives and at most locations. In Sydney there are two families of grinners/lizardfish that can be seen as described below. More information and pictures of these species are available in the links below:
Sergeant Bakers
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Lizardfish
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