Fin's Fish Guide
The Bigeye grunt (Brachydeuterus auritus) is a saltwater fish of the family Haemulidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, in shoals over sandy and silty bottoms of the continental shelf.
Description
The bigeye grunt is a silvery fish of the family Haemulidae (grunts) reaching about 30 cm. The laterally compressed body stands out for large eyes and a yellowish tinge; like other grunts it can make a grunting sound with its throat teeth and swim bladder. The species forms enormous schools over sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf along the West African coast. In the water above the bottom it feeds on zooplankton, small crustaceans, worms and small fish. Through its great numbers the bigeye grunt is one of the most important commercial fish of the West African coastal fishery and a main prey for larger predators.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bigeye grunt?
The Bigeye grunt has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Silvery grunt with large eyes and a yellowish tinge; forms enormous shoals over soft bottoms and makes a grunting sound with its swim bladder.
Where does the Bigeye grunt live?
The Bigeye grunt lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, in shoals over sandy and silty bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Bigeye grunt get?
The Bigeye grunt grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 23 cm.
Is the Bigeye grunt dangerous to humans?
No, the Bigeye grunt is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bigeye grunt edible?
Yes, the Bigeye grunt is a highly prized food fish.
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More from the family Haemulidae
Want the complete picture on the Bigeye grunt?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bigeye grunt is one of 12,519 species in the app.