Fin's Fish Guide
The Cock grunter (Pomadasys multimaculatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Haemulidae that grows up to 76 cm.
Africa: Australia, Mayotte, Djibouti, India, Kenya, Madagascar and others
Description
The Cock grunter is a grunt (Haemulidae) from shallow coastal and estuarine water of the western Indian Ocean off southern Africa. The species grows to about 25 cm and has an elongate, silver-grey body, often with spots or stripes, and can make a grunting sound with its throat teeth. As a nocturnal fish it shelters by day above reef and searches at night over sand and mud for worms, small crustaceans and molluscs. It is a valued food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cock grunter?
The Cock grunter has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Cock grunter live?
The Cock grunter lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa: Australia, Mayotte, Djibouti, India, Kenya, Madagascar and others
How big does the Cock grunter get?
The Cock grunter grows to a maximum of about 76 cm. On average the species is around 60 cm.
Is the Cock grunter dangerous to humans?
No, the Cock grunter 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 Cock grunter edible?
Yes, the Cock grunter is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Cock grunter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cock grunter is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pomadasys
More from the family Haemulidae
Want the complete picture on the Cock grunter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cock grunter is one of 12,519 species in the app.