The Secret Lives of Black Drummer: Do They Stay or Do They Go?

Drummer fish are fascinating creatures found along the rocky shores of Australia. These fish have sparked curiosity among anglers for years, especially about whether they stay in one spot or move around. Let’s dive into the world of drummer fish to understand their behavior and lifestyle, using insights from both fishermen and scientific studies.

Do Drummer Fish Move Around?

Many fishermen have noticed that drummer fish tend to stick close to home. They usually hang out near rocky reefs and don’t travel far. Some anglers have even observed that if you fish in one spot too often, you might start catching smaller drummer fish over time. This suggests that these fish don’t roam far and can be quickly depleted in a small area if overfished.

Why Do They Stay?

Drummer fish seem to like their home spots because they offer everything they need—shelter, food, and safety. They often hide in crevices or caves during the day, making them tricky to spot. Even when they do move, it's usually not very far, just a bit further out to deeper reefs or perhaps to a nearby beach when food is scarce. But generally, they’re known for their “homebody” behavior, sticking to familiar areas as long as they can find enough to eat.

What About During Different Seasons?

Interestingly, drummer fish might move more during certain times of the year. Some experts have observed that in summer, these fish might head out to deeper reefs, possibly to spawn, and then return closer to the shore as the seasons change. This seasonal movement shows that while drummer fish are mostly home-loving they do have times when they venture out a bit further.

Scientific Insights

Research on the Eastern Rock Blackfish (Girella elevata) provides us with some clues about Black Drummer or Rock Blackfish fish behaviour. Scientists found that these fish do tend to stay within a small area and have a slow growth rate. They grow old, some even living up to 45 years! This long life coupled with slow growth means that if too many fish are caught from one spot it can take a long time for the population to recover.

Moreover, this research showed that these fish don't just stay put for no reason. They are very sensitive to changes in their environment, such as temperature and food availability. If the conditions in their home area change too much, they might be forced to move, but they prefer to stay where they are comfortable and familiar.

The Importance of Protecting Drummer Fish

Given their tendency to stay in one place and their slow growth, it’s important to fish responsibly. Overfishing in one area can quickly reduce the number of drummer fish, making it harder for the population to bounce back. Don't target the same area too often and watch the sizes you are catching to see if they are getting smaller.

Conclusion

Drummer fish are creatures of habit preferring to stay close to home rather than migrate long distances. However, seasonal changes can prompt them to move to deeper waters temporarily. Understanding their behavior and the risks they face from overfishing can help us protect these fascinating fish for future generations. So, next time you're out fishing, remember that patience and respect for these slow-growing, home-loving fish can make all the difference in keeping their populations healthy.