Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackfin soapfish (Rypticus nigripinnis) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The blackfin soapfish (Rypticus nigripinnis) is a sea bass relative of the family Serranidae from the eastern Pacific. The species has a stocky, dark body with a few paler spots and reaches about 20 cm. It is shy and secretive: by day it lies motionless, often on its side, tucked into dark recesses and along walls of rocky reefs, and at night it actively hunts fishes and crustaceans. Soapfishes owe their name to a toxic, bitter mucus (grammistin) they secrete when disturbed, which foams in water; for this reason the species is not eaten. Little else is known about this secretive fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackfin soapfish?
The Blackfin soapfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. When disturbed it secretes a poisonous, foaming mucus (grammistine); shy nocturnal hunter.
Where does the Blackfin soapfish live?
The Blackfin soapfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Rocky reefs of the eastern Pacific.
How big does the Blackfin soapfish get?
The Blackfin soapfish grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Blackfin soapfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackfin soapfish 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 soapfish edible?
The Blackfin soapfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Rypticus
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackfin soapfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackfin soapfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.