Fish
Natal Knifejaw
Oplegnathus robinsoni
A robust reef fish armed with a parrot-like beak of fused teeth, one of a small group of knifejaws found along the South African coast.
Also known as natal cuckoo bass
- Habitat
- Rocky reefs
The Natal knifejaw belongs to a small family of stocky reef fishes recognised by their heavy, beak-like jaws formed from fused teeth. Like its relatives it grazes hard-bottom and reef habitat, its tough beak dealing easily with encrusting prey. Rarely fooled by bait, knifejaws are more often taken by spearos working close to reef structure.