Fin's Fish Guide
The Graybar grunt (Haemulon sexfasciatum) is a saltwater fish of the family Haemulidae that grows up to 71 cm.
Description
The graybar grunt is a large grunt of the family Haemulidae from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 71 cm and has a silvery body with five to six prominent, broad grey to dark crossbars over the upper flank, characteristic also of adults. By day it forms schools around coastal reefs; at night it disperses over sand and rubble bottoms to forage. As a bottom predator it feeds on small crustaceans, molluscs and worms. Grunts owe their name to the grunting sound they make with the pharyngeal teeth, amplified by the swim bladder. The graybar grunt is a valued food fish and harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Graybar grunt?
The Graybar grunt has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Five to six prominent grey vertical bars across the upper flank, also in adults; schools during the day and makes grunting sounds.
Where does the Graybar grunt live?
The Graybar grunt lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific; coastal reefs and adjacent sand and gravel bottoms.
How big does the Graybar grunt get?
The Graybar grunt grows to a maximum of about 71 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Graybar grunt dangerous to humans?
No, the Graybar grunt is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Graybar grunt edible?
Yes, the Graybar grunt is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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 Graybar grunt?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Graybar grunt is one of 12,519 species in the app.