Boot

Acanthistius ocellatus

Not Evaluated Saltwater

Max Length

45.0 cm

Color

Brownish to orange-brown body with …

Family

Anthiadidae

About

A spotted grouper/seabass with a distinctive ocellus (eye-spot) pattern from southern Australian and southern African waters. Inhabits rocky reefs; ambush predator of fish and crustaceans.

Physical Description

Measurement	Value
Maximum Length	45.0 cm

Coloration

Brownish to orange-brown body with multiple dark-edged pale ocelli (eyespots) scattered across the flanks and dorsal surface; the ocellated pattern is the key identifier; belly paler; fins brownish with pale spots.

Habitat & Distribution

Rocky reefs and reef walls of southern Australia and South Africa at 5-40m depth. Prefers deep overhangs and cave entrances in temperate marine habitats.

Water Type

Saltwater

Geographic Range

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Edibility & Culinary

Taste

A South African inshore reef fish known locally as 'boot'; edible with firm, white flesh. Taken occasionally by recreational anglers; suitable for pan-frying or grilling, though not widely marketed.

Taxonomy

Order	Perciformes/Serranoidei
Family	Anthiadidae
Species	Acanthistius ocellatus

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you eat Boot?

A South African inshore reef fish known locally as 'boot'; edible with firm, white flesh. Taken occasionally by recreational anglers; suitable for pan-frying or grilling, though not widely marketed.

How big does Boot get?

Boot can grow up to 45.0 cm long.

Where is Boot found?

Southeastern Atlantic and southwestern Indian Ocean off southern Africa, from Namibia and the Western Cape of South Africa east around the Cape of Good Hope to the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. Found on rocky coastal reefs. Rocky reefs and reef walls of southern Australia and South Africa at 5-40m depth. Prefers deep overhangs and cave entrances in temperate marine habitats.

What family does Boot belong to?

Boot (Acanthistius ocellatus) belongs to the family Anthiadidae in the order Perciformes/Serranoidei.