Fin's Fish Guide
The Blue-lined coral cod (Cephalopholis boenak) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Indo-West Pacific, mainly coastal on silty dead reefs in sheltered waters, sometimes on living coral.
Description
The chocolate hind is a small grouper (family Serranidae) of the Indo-West Pacific. The species reaches about 30 cm and has a stocky, brown body with dark bars. It is mainly coastal and inhabits silty, dead reefs in protected waters, but is also seen on live coral; it is secretive and often stays hidden. As a predator it hunts mainly fishes and crustaceans. Like many groupers the species is a protogynous hermaphrodite that begins as a female and may later change into a male. It is of value to subsistence fisheries and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blue-lined coral cod?
The Blue-lined coral cod has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Shy, small sea bass with dark vertical bars; protogynous hermaphrodite.
Where does the Blue-lined coral cod live?
The Blue-lined coral cod lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific, mainly coastal on silty dead reefs in sheltered waters, sometimes on living coral.
How big does the Blue-lined coral cod get?
The Blue-lined coral cod grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Blue-lined coral cod dangerous to humans?
No, the Blue-lined coral cod is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blue-lined coral cod edible?
Yes, the Blue-lined coral cod is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cephalopholis
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the Blue-lined coral cod?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blue-lined coral cod is one of 12,519 species in the app.