Fin's Fish Guide
The Chilean nibbler (Girella laevifrons) is a saltwater fish of the family Kyphosidae that grows up to 38 cm.
Southeast Pacific; rocky shores and intertidal zones off Chile and Peru.
Description
The Chilean nibbler is a fish of the sea chub and sweep family (Kyphosidae) from the south-eastern Pacific off Chile and Peru. The species grows to about 38 cm and has a deep, oval, greyish body with a small mouth. It inhabits rocky shores and intertidal zones of cool waters. As a predominantly herbivorous fish it grazes algae and seaweed from the rocks, supplemented with small invertebrates taken incidentally. It is a common rock dweller of the Chilean coast. The Chilean nibbler is a local angling and food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chilean nibbler?
The Chilean nibbler has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Deep, greyish body; algae-eating rock dweller of the cool Chilean-Peruvian coast.
Where does the Chilean nibbler live?
The Chilean nibbler lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Southeast Pacific; rocky shores and intertidal zones off Chile and Peru.
How big does the Chilean nibbler get?
The Chilean nibbler grows to a maximum of about 38 cm.
Is the Chilean nibbler dangerous to humans?
No, the Chilean nibbler is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Chilean nibbler edible?
Yes, the Chilean nibbler is commonly eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Chilean nibbler?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Girella
More from the family Kyphosidae
Want the complete picture on the Chilean nibbler?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chilean nibbler is one of 12,519 species in the app.