The biological characteristics of Scorpis aequipinnis (Kyphosidae), including relevant comparisons with those of other species and particularly of a heavily exploited congener

► Scorpis aequipinnis attains 68 years and 477 mm FL and matures at 14-16 years. ► These values are far greater than for Scorpis lineolatus in eastern Australia. ► Maturity is attained by both Scorpis species at an atypically large relative length. ► Male S. aequipinnis had a higher than expected level of fishing mortality. ► S. aequipinnis is potentially susceptible to local over-exploitation.