Fin's Fish Guide
The Boga (Haemulon vittatum) is a saltwater fish of the family Haemulidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Description
The boga is a grunt from the western Atlantic, from Florida and Bermuda through the Caribbean to Brazil. The species grows to about 23 cm and has a slender, streamlined, silvery body with fine dark longitudinal lines and a forked tail. Unlike most grunts it forms large schools in open water above reefs and slopes, where it catches zooplankton from the current. The fish is a valued bait and food fish and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Boga?
The Boga has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Slender silvery body; forms large plankton-feeding shoals in open water
Where does the Boga live?
The Boga lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic
How big does the Boga get?
The Boga grows to a maximum of about 23 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Boga dangerous to humans?
No, the Boga 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 Boga edible?
Yes, the Boga is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Haemulon
More from the family Haemulidae
Want the complete picture on the Boga?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Boga is one of 12,519 species in the app.