Moonlighter
Tilodon sexfasciatus
Moonlighter (Tilodon sexfasciatus) is an Australian temperate reef fish in the moonlighter family. It is a small, nocturnal, stripe-sided species that shelters by day and forages around shallow rocky reefs and kelp at night.
Identification points
- Distinctive six dark vertical bars on the body
- Deep-bodied, laterally compressed reef fish
- Small mouth and dusky to silvery body with yellowish fins
Habitat
Shallow temperate rocky reefs, kelp beds, surge zones, and reef edges, usually close to structure and often from the intertidal down to a few tens of meters.
Bait notes
Not a major gamefish. Small baits such as pieces of prawn, shrimp, worm, or fish strip can take it; tiny soft plastics or small baitfish imitations may also work around reef edges.
Behavior
Mostly nocturnal; hides in crevices and under ledges during the day and emerges to feed at night on small benthic invertebrates. It is typically observed singly or in loose groups and can be wary near cover.
Caution
Rocky-reef fishing around its habitat can be hazardous in surf and swell; use caution on slippery platforms. Check local regulations before keeping fish; no major species-specific toxin concerns are well documented.
Fishing notes
Fish light tackle close to rock structure after dark, using small hooks and minimal sinker weight. Keep presentations tight to the bottom and work ledges, holes, and kelp edges where it feeds.