Fin's Fish Guide
The Barned-face spine-cheek (Scolopsis margaritifera) is a saltwater fish of the family Nemipteridae that grows up to 28 cm.
Description
The pearly monocle bream is a reef fish of the monocle bream family (Nemipteridae) from the western Pacific. The species grows to about 28 cm and has a streamlined, brownish body with a pearly sheen and fine pale markings. It lives on sand bottoms close to coral reefs. As a bottom predator it feeds on crustaceans, polychaete worms and small fishes. Monocle breams owe their name to a spine below the eye, pointing backward. The pearly monocle bream is a local food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barned-face spine-cheek?
The Barned-face spine-cheek has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Mother-of-pearl sheen and a backward-pointing spine below the eye.
Where does the Barned-face spine-cheek live?
The Barned-face spine-cheek lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Pacific; sandy bottoms close to coral reefs.
How big does the Barned-face spine-cheek get?
The Barned-face spine-cheek grows to a maximum of about 28 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Barned-face spine-cheek dangerous to humans?
No, the Barned-face spine-cheek is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Barned-face spine-cheek edible?
Yes, the Barned-face spine-cheek is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Scolopsis
More from the family Nemipteridae
Want the complete picture on the Barned-face spine-cheek?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barned-face spine-cheek is one of 12,519 species in the app.