Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded-tail coral-cod (Cephalopholis urodeta) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 28 cm.
Eastern Indian Ocean (Christmas Island) and western to central Pacific; clear, shallow outer reef areas and lagoons.
Description
The darkfin hind is a small grouper of the family Serranidae from the eastern Indian and western to central Pacific. The species grows to about 28 cm and has a red-brown body with fine spots and a dark tail fin with two paler, oblique stripes. Adults inhabit clear, shallow waters of outer reef areas and lagoons. As an ambush predator it feeds mainly on small fishes, supplemented with crustaceans. Like many groupers it is a protogynous hermaphrodite, starting as a female. The darkfin hind is a local food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded-tail coral-cod?
The Banded-tail coral-cod has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Dark caudal fin with two paler oblique stripes; protogynous hermaphrodite of outer reefs.
Where does the Banded-tail coral-cod live?
The Banded-tail coral-cod lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Indian Ocean (Christmas Island) and western to central Pacific; clear, shallow outer reef areas and lagoons.
How big does the Banded-tail coral-cod get?
The Banded-tail coral-cod grows to a maximum of about 28 cm.
Is the Banded-tail coral-cod dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded-tail coral-cod is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Banded-tail coral-cod edible?
Yes, the Banded-tail coral-cod is commonly eaten.
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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 Banded-tail coral-cod?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded-tail coral-cod is one of 12,519 species in the app.