Fin's Fish Guide
The African hind (Cephalopholis taeniops) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 70 cm.
Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, near rocky bottoms and reefs of the continental shelf.
Description
The African hind is a grouper of the family Serranidae reaching about 70 cm. The robust, reddish-brown body is covered with numerous small, bright-blue spots that extend over the head and fins; the tail is rounded. The species is a sea bass living near rocky bottoms and reefs of the continental shelf along the West African coast. As an ambush predator it darts from cover at passing fish and crustaceans and sucks them in with a wide-gaping mouth. Like many groupers it is a protogynous hermaphrodite: individuals begin as females and may later become males. With its tasty flesh it is a valued commercial and sport fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African hind?
The African hind has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Red-brown grouper covered with small blue spots, also on the head and fins; a sea bass with a rounded tail.
Where does the African hind live?
The African hind lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, near rocky bottoms and reefs of the continental shelf.
How big does the African hind get?
The African hind grows to a maximum of about 70 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the African hind dangerous to humans?
No, the African hind is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the African hind edible?
Yes, the African hind is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the African hind and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cephalopholis
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the African hind?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African hind is one of 12,519 species in the app.