Other names: Bigeye sea perch, Coral perch, Red gurnard perch, Bigeye ocean perch, Red rock perch
The coral cod, Helicolenus barathri, is a deep-water fish found in the southwestern Pacific, particularly around New Zealand and Australia. Distinguished by its large eyes and reddish color, this species inhabits the continental shelf and slope. It is important for commercial fisheries due to its high-quality meat.
Other names
Bigeye sea perch, Coral perch, Red gurnard perch, Bigeye ocean perch, Red rock perch
Length
~20" (max 36)
Weight
~1" (max 2)
Water
Salt
Water Temp
2-7° F
Depth
250-800 ft
Pilchards
SquidAlways open
5
38 cm
Total length
Coral cod are found on the continental shelf and slope, preferring depths ranging from moderate to deep waters
They inhabit benthic zones, typically over rocky or sandy substrates
Their diet includes smaller fish, crustaceans, and other benthic invertebrates
Juveniles are usually found in shallower areas, moving deeper as they mature
This species is viviparous, with internal fertilization and the female giving birth to live young
Spawning occurs in deep waters, and larvae are planktonic before settling to the bottom
Bigeye sea perch exhibit seasonal reproductive cycles, usually breeding in warmer months
They show site fidelity, often returning to the same breeding grounds annually
