Fish
Cape Knifejaw
Oplegnathus conwayi
A South African endemic with a parrot-like beak of fused teeth - it rarely takes a hook, but is easily speared on Cape and Natal reefs.
Also known as cuckoo bass, kaapse kraaibek, parrotfish
- Typical size
- Attains 90 cm
- Habitat
- Rocky reefs, False Bay to Natal
The Cape knifejaw carries a distinctive beak formed from fused teeth and a naked crown, its body becoming more elongate with age. It grows to around 90 cm and is found only in South African waters.
Common from False Bay to Natal, it is a reef fish that seldom takes a baited hook, which makes it a familiar and worthwhile target for spearos.