Fin's Fish Guide
The Coral cod (Cephalopholis sonnerati) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 57 cm.
Description
The tomato hind is a grouper of the Indo-Pacific, ranging from the east coast of Africa to the Line Islands, north to southern Japan and south to Queensland. It grows to about 57 cm and has a robust, reddish-brown body with numerous small reddish-brown speckles; juveniles are dark reddish-brown to nearly black. It lives on reefs between about 10 and 150 metres depth and hunts small fish and crustaceans such as shrimp, crabs and mantis shrimp. Like many groupers the species is a protogynous hermaphrodite. It is a valued food fish caught with handline, spear and traps. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Coral cod?
The Coral cod has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Red-brown with fine speckles; protogynous hermaphrodite
Where does the Coral cod live?
The Coral cod lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific
How big does the Coral cod get?
The Coral cod grows to a maximum of about 57 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Coral cod dangerous to humans?
No, the Coral cod 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 Coral cod edible?
Yes, the Coral cod is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cephalopholis
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the Coral cod?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Coral cod is one of 12,519 species in the app.