Fin's Fish Guide
The Chere-chere grunt (Haemulon steindachneri) is a saltwater fish of the family Haemulidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Western Atlantic and eastern Pacific; sandy and rubble bottoms, sometimes reefs.
Description
Steindachner's grunt is a grunt of the family Haemulidae occurring in both the western Atlantic and the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a silvery body with a conspicuous dark blotch on the tail base. It lives over sand and rubble bottoms and occasionally occurs on coral reefs and rocky areas, often in schools. As a bottom predator it feeds on small crustaceans, worms and molluscs. Grunts owe their name to the grunting sound they make with the pharyngeal teeth, amplified by the swim bladder. The species is a valued food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chere-chere grunt?
The Chere-chere grunt has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Dark blotch on the caudal peduncle; shoals over sandy and gravelly bottoms and makes grunting sounds.
Where does the Chere-chere grunt live?
The Chere-chere grunt lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and eastern Pacific; sandy and rubble bottoms, sometimes reefs.
How big does the Chere-chere grunt get?
The Chere-chere grunt grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Chere-chere grunt dangerous to humans?
No, the Chere-chere grunt is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Chere-chere grunt edible?
Yes, the Chere-chere grunt is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Haemulon
More from the family Haemulidae
Want the complete picture on the Chere-chere grunt?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chere-chere grunt is one of 12,519 species in the app.