Fin's Fish Guide
The Atlantic porkfish (Anisotremus virginicus) is a saltwater fish of the family Haemulidae that grows up to 41 cm.
Description
The porkfish is a strikingly coloured grunt of the family Haemulidae from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a deep, yellow body with blue-white longitudinal stripes and two black oblique bands over the head. It inhabits reefs and rocky bottoms and often forms schools by day, sometimes mixed with other grunts. At night it forages on the bottom on small crustaceans, molluscs, worms and echinoderms. Grunts make a grunting sound with the pharyngeal teeth, amplified by the swim bladder. The porkfish is a valued food and aquarium fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atlantic porkfish?
The Atlantic porkfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Yellow with blue-white stripes and two black oblique head bands; shoals during the day and produces grunting sounds. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with caution or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Atlantic porkfish live?
The Atlantic porkfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean; reefs and rocky bottoms.
How big does the Atlantic porkfish get?
The Atlantic porkfish grows to a maximum of about 41 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Atlantic porkfish dangerous to humans?
The Atlantic porkfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Atlantic porkfish edible?
Yes, the Atlantic porkfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Atlantic porkfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atlantic porkfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Anisotremus
More from the family Haemulidae
Want the complete picture on the Atlantic porkfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atlantic porkfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.