Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackspotted rubberlip (Plectorhinchus gaterinus) is a saltwater fish of the family Haemulidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Africa: Bahrain, Sri Lanka, Comoros, Mayotte, Djibouti, India and others
Description
The blackspotted rubberlip is a grunt or sweetlips (Haemulidae) from the western Indian Ocean and Red Sea. The species grows to about 50 cm and has a silver-grey body densely covered with orange to black spots, with yellow fins and fleshy lips. As a bottom-oriented predator it shelters by day in groups around coral reefs and hunts small crustaceans, worms and small fish at night. It is a valued food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackspotted rubberlip?
The Blackspotted rubberlip has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Blackspotted rubberlip live?
The Blackspotted rubberlip lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Africa: Bahrain, Sri Lanka, Comoros, Mayotte, Djibouti, India and others
How big does the Blackspotted rubberlip get?
The Blackspotted rubberlip grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Blackspotted rubberlip dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackspotted rubberlip 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 Blackspotted rubberlip edible?
Yes, the Blackspotted rubberlip is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Plectorhinchus
More from the family Haemulidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackspotted rubberlip?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackspotted rubberlip is one of 12,519 species in the app.