Randall's Snapper - a new record for the Cocos Keeling Islands

Until recently, Randall's Snapper, Randallichthys filamentosus, was known from scattered localities across the east Indian and central-western Pacific Oceans. In Australia, it's recorded from off Esperance in southern Western Australia, off Scott Reef in northwest Western Australia, and off Lord Howe Island. View distribution on the Australian Faunal Directory species page.

Thanks to the keen efforts of Shakirin Keegan, we can now add the Cocos Keeling Islands to the distribution of this species.

Shakirin, a Fisheries Compliance Officer at the Cocos Marine Care/Shire of the Cocos Keeling Islands, shared the exciting discovery:

"During a recent patrol, I encountered an incoming recreational fishing boat and proceeded with my routine catch inspection. To my surprise, the fisher on board pointed out a species of fish that he had never seen before. Upon closer examination, I immediately measured the fish using my ruler, placed it on a suitable surface, and took a photograph for documentation purposes."

"Intrigued by the unfamiliar species, I conducted a quick search on Google Images and was able to successfully identify the fish and later posted the observation on iNaturalist."

Randall's Snapper can be easily recognized by its distinct shape and coloration. It is rosy red with a yellow tinge, and the outer edges of the spinous dorsal and pelvic fins are black.

This new record is significant for several reasons. It not only expands the known range of Randall's Snapper but also highlights the importance of local fisheries and marine officers in contributing to marine biodiversity records. Such discoveries are crucial for understanding the distribution patterns of marine species and for informing conservation efforts.

A sincere thank you to Shakirin for his dedication and effort in documenting this new record.