Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded grunt (Pomadasys maculatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Haemulidae that grows up to 59 cm.
Indo-West Pacific; coastal waters over sandy bottoms near reefs, sometimes estuaries.
Description
The saddle grunt is a grunt of the family Haemulidae from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 60 cm and has a silvery body that in juveniles bears a few large, dark saddle blotches on the back. It inhabits coastal waters over sandy bottoms near reefs and sometimes enters estuaries. As a bottom predator it feeds on crustaceans and fishes. Grunts make a grunting sound with the pharyngeal teeth, amplified by the swim bladder. The saddle grunt is a valued food fish, though the flesh spoils quickly and must be eaten fresh. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded grunt?
The Banded grunt has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Juveniles with dark saddle blotches on the back; makes grunting sounds with its pharyngeal teeth.
Where does the Banded grunt live?
The Banded grunt lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; coastal waters over sandy bottoms near reefs, sometimes estuaries.
How big does the Banded grunt get?
The Banded grunt grows to a maximum of about 59 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Banded grunt dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded grunt is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Banded grunt edible?
Yes, the Banded grunt is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Banded grunt?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded grunt is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pomadasys
More from the family Haemulidae
Want the complete picture on the Banded grunt?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded grunt is one of 12,519 species in the app.