Other names: Spotted whiting, Spotted sillago
The King George whiting, or Sillaginodes punctatus, is a prized marine species found in southern Australian waters. Recognized by its elongated body and silvery appearance with faint spots, it inhabits sandy bottoms and seagrass beds. This fish is highly sought after by both commercial and recreational fishermen for its delicate, flavorful flesh.
Other names
Spotted whiting, Spotted sillago
Length
~40" (max 80)
Weight
~1" (max 5)
Water
Salt
Depth
2-200 ft
Always open
20
27 cm
Total length
Commonly found in coastal bays, estuaries, and nearshore waters
Prefers sandy or muddy bottoms and seagrass beds
Feeds on small crustaceans, worms, and mollusks
Juveniles inhabit shallow, protected waters, moving to deeper areas as they mature
Spawning occurs in offshore waters during late spring and summer
Eggs are pelagic, with larvae developing in open water before moving inshore
Juveniles grow in estuaries and sheltered bays
Adults migrate to deeper coastal waters, often forming schools during spawning season