The Blue assessor (Assessor macneilli) is a saltwater fish of the family Plesiopidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The blue assessor is a small hulafish (Plesiopidae) from reef water of the western Pacific, especially the Great Barrier Reef. The species grows to about 6 cm and has a deep blue-violet body with long dorsal and anal fins. Characteristically it often hovers upside-down beneath cave roofs and overhangs on the reef and snaps at small zooplankton. The male broods the eggs in his mouth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blue assessor?
The Blue assessor has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly blue.
Where does the Blue assessor live?
The Blue assessor lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea
How big does the Blue assessor get?
The Blue assessor grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Blue assessor dangerous to humans?
No, the Blue assessor 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 Blue assessor edible?
Yes, the Blue assessor is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Assessor
More from the family Plesiopidae

Want the complete picture on the Blue assessor?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blue assessor is one of 12,519 species in the app.