The Chequered perchlet (Plectranthias inermis) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Asia: Christmas I., Fiji, Indonesia, Mauritius, Papua New Guinea, Philippines
Description
The chequered perchlet is a tiny sea bass (Serranidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to only about 5 cm and has a stocky, red-pink body with a chequered pattern of white blotches. As a cryptic bottom-dweller it shelters in crevices and cavities of coral and rocky reefs and snaps at small crustaceans. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chequered perchlet?
The Chequered perchlet has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Chequered perchlet live?
The Chequered perchlet lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Christmas I., Fiji, Indonesia, Mauritius, Papua New Guinea, Philippines
How big does the Chequered perchlet get?
The Chequered perchlet grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Chequered perchlet dangerous to humans?
No, the Chequered perchlet 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.
More photos

Want the complete picture on the Chequered perchlet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chequered perchlet is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Plectranthias
More from the family Serranidae

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