Fin's Fish Guide
The Cortez grunt (Haemulon flaviguttatum) is a saltwater fish of the family Haemulidae that grows up to 42 cm.
Description
The yellowspotted grunt is a grunt (Haemulidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a silver-grey body with rows of small yellow spots. Grunts owe their name to the grunting sound they make with their throat teeth, amplified by the swim bladder. It is a bottom fish of coastal waters that by day hangs in schools over rocky and sandy bottoms and at night disperses to forage on benthic invertebrates. It is marketed fresh and is a valued food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cortez grunt?
The Cortez grunt has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Small yellow spots; produces a grunting sound with its pharyngeal teeth; shoals during the day, forages at night.
Where does the Cortez grunt live?
The Cortez grunt lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; rocky and sandy bottoms of coastal waters.
How big does the Cortez grunt get?
The Cortez grunt grows to a maximum of about 42 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Cortez grunt dangerous to humans?
No, the Cortez grunt is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Cortez grunt edible?
Yes, the Cortez grunt is commonly eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Cortez grunt?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cortez grunt is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Haemulon
More from the family Haemulidae
Want the complete picture on the Cortez grunt?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cortez grunt is one of 12,519 species in the app.