About Acanthoclinus fuscus Jenyns, 1841
The olive rockfish, known scientifically as Acanthoclinus fuscus, is called taumaka in Māori. It is a species of longfin that belongs to the family Plesiopidae. This fish is found only in New Zealand's intertidal zone, and in rock pools at low tide. It can also be found in Moncks Bay, Christchurch, New Zealand at high tide during winter months. Individuals of this species grow up to 30 centimetres, or 12 inches, in length. They are permanent residents of the intertidal zone and exhibit homing behaviour, typically dwelling in pools among rocks or boulders. They may leave these pools if local conditions become unsuitable. This species can breathe air, and swims with a sinuous, eel-like motion. Their diet is made up mostly of invertebrates, primarily crustaceans and molluscs. Male olive rockfish guard the species' eggs. These fish are black in colour, with a distinct white band across the head.
