The fish known today as the Luderick is a common, highly valued species along the coast of Eastern Australia, scientifically identified as Girella tricuspidata. This coastal fish, found primarily in New South Wales waters, has a long and complicated history regarding its common name. The discussion of its nomenclature is necessary because the public often encounters older references or local names. The evolution of the fish’s name reflects changes in commercial practice and regulatory clarity within the Australian fishing industry.
The Historical Common Names
Prior to the adoption of the standardized name “Luderick,” this species was most frequently known in Australia by the names “Blackfish” and “Black Bream.” These common names were used extensively by local anglers and the commercial fishing industry throughout New South Wales. The descriptor “Blackfish” was likely given due to the fish’s often dark coloration, especially in estuarine habitats.
The use of “Black Bream” created significant confusion for conservation efforts. This name incorrectly implied a close relationship to the true Bream (Sparidae family), while the Luderick is from a different family entirely. Furthermore, “Blackfish” was applied to other unrelated species across the region, making consistent identification difficult for consumers and regulators.
The Reasons for the Name Change
The transition to the name “Luderick” was driven largely by practical and commercial motivations aimed at achieving greater clarity. The multiplicity of historical names, especially the misleading “Black Bream,” caused problems for marketing and consumer confidence. Standardizing the name was a necessary step to ensure that buyers were certain of the species they were purchasing.
Fishing authorities and industry bodies eventually spearheaded a push for standardization to resolve these ongoing issues. The name “Luderick” was chosen, likely originating from an Aboriginal name used in the Gippsland region of Australia. This official adoption ensured that fisheries management could more effectively track catches, enforce regulations, and monitor the population. The standardized name became the consistent label for the commercial trade.
Formal Scientific Classification
The modern common name, Luderick, refers to the species Girella tricuspidata. This scientific name provides the constant, globally recognized identifier for the fish, regardless of local or historical common names. The specific epithet tricuspidata is a reference to the structure of the fish’s teeth, which possess three distinct cusps.
The Luderick belongs to the family Girellidae, commonly known as the sea chubs or nibblers. Placing the species within this family reinforces its biological distinction from other fish, such as the true Bream in the Sparidae family. The formal scientific classification of Girella tricuspidata remains the authority for biological and conservation purposes.