Cockatoo Handfish

Pezichthys amplispinus is a small, bottom-dwelling anglerfish belonging to the handfish family, distinguished by pectoral and pelvic fins modified into limb-like structures that allow it to "walk" across the seafloor rather than swim. Like other handfishes, it is a slow-moving, sedentary ambush predator, using a modified dorsal spine (illicium) to lure small invertebrates and fish within striking range. Its limited mobility and site fidelity make it a poor disperser, meaning local populations depend heavily on stable, undisturbed habitat.

The species is found in marine oceanic waters off Australia, occupying benthic habitats where it remains closely tied to specific substrate types. No other range countries are recorded, and its distribution appears highly restricted.

The species is classified as Endangered, with a decreasing population trend. Key threats include incidental capture and disturbance from fishing and harvesting activities, predation or competition pressures from invasive species, and habitat degradation linked to unspecified pollution sources. Coastal logging and wood harvesting activities are also listed as an ongoing threat, likely contributing to sediment runoff and habitat alteration in nearshore marine environments.

Conservation efforts for Australian handfishes generally include habitat monitoring, restrictions on activities affecting seafloor habitats, and research into population status and distribution, though species-specific measures for Pezichthys amplispinus are not well documented. No population figures are available.

Given its restricted range, low mobility, and multiple concurrent ongoing threats, the species' outlook remains precarious. Without targeted habitat protection and reduction of cumulative pressures, continued population decline is likely.