Red moki
📖 Overview
Red moki (Chirodactylus spectabilis), first described by Hutton, 1872 is a very large fish in the family Cheilodactylidae (order Centrarchiformes). Adults typically reach 100.00 cm in maximum length. Reported lifespan reaches approximately 97 years. It inhabits marine coastal and open-ocean environments. Recorded depth range: 1 to 50 metres. It occurs in Temperate waters. It feeds on a mix of small fish and invertebrates as a mid-level predator. On the IUCN Red List, it is classified as Least Concern.The species is important as a food fish and considered a sustainable seafood option under current management. As a member of the Cheilodactylidae, it shares life-history and morphological traits with its relatives in the group.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
: short and / or deep.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Red moki is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
Species is a serial spawner .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; demersal; depth range 1 - 50 m . Temperate Southwest Pacific: New Zealand and southern Australia.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Chirodactylus Spectabilis is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Per 100g cooked - Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 18.5 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 445 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Red moki has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔬 Full Nutritional Profile
Per 100g - Raw, per 100g - Source: USDA FoodData Central templates (generic fish average)
📊 Population Dynamics
| Year | Region | Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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