Fin's Fish Guide
The Brownkelly (Plectorhinchus chaetodonoides) is a brackish-water fish of the family Haemulidae that grows up to 72 cm.
Description
The harlequin sweetlips is a large sweetlips of the family Haemulidae from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 72 cm; adults are grey-brown with numerous dark spots, while juveniles are conspicuously brown-and-white blotched and, with a jerky, dancing swimming motion, mimic toxic flatworms, which deters predators. It inhabits coral-rich parts of clear lagoon and seaward reefs. As a nocturnal bottom predator it feeds on crustaceans, molluscs and small fishes. Sweetlips owe their name to their thick, fleshy lips. The species is a local food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brownkelly?
The Brownkelly has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Juveniles mimic poisonous flatworms with a dancing swimming motion; adults dark-spotted.
Where does the Brownkelly live?
The Brownkelly lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; coral-rich lagoon and seaward reefs.
How big does the Brownkelly get?
The Brownkelly grows to a maximum of about 72 cm. On average the species is around 60 cm.
Is the Brownkelly dangerous to humans?
No, the Brownkelly is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Brownkelly edible?
Yes, the Brownkelly 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 Brownkelly?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brownkelly is one of 12,519 species in the app.