Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackfin slatey (Diagramma melanacrum) is a saltwater fish of the family Haemulidae that grows up to 45 cm.
Asia: Australia, Myanmar, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Timor-Leste
Description
The blackfin slatey is a grunt or sweetlips (Haemulidae) from the western Pacific and eastern Indian Ocean. The species grows to about 45 cm; juveniles are white with black longitudinal stripes, adults grey with dark fins. As a bottom-oriented predator it lives around coral and rocky reefs and on adjacent sand flats and hunts mainly at night for small crustaceans, worms and small fish. It is a food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackfin slatey?
The Blackfin slatey has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Blackfin slatey live?
The Blackfin slatey lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Asia: Australia, Myanmar, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Timor-Leste
How big does the Blackfin slatey get?
The Blackfin slatey grows to a maximum of about 45 cm.
Is the Blackfin slatey dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackfin slatey is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Blackfin slatey edible?
Yes, the Blackfin slatey is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Diagramma
More from the family Haemulidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackfin slatey?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackfin slatey is one of 12,519 species in the app.