Fin's Fish Guide
The Grunt (Anisotremus davidsonii) is a saltwater fish of the family Haemulidae that grows up to 58 cm.
Eastern Pacific off California and Mexico; rocky reefs and kelp forests.
Description
The sargo is a grunt (Haemulidae) from the eastern Pacific off California and Mexico. The species grows to about 58 cm and has a deep, silver-grey body with a conspicuous dark crossbar behind the pectoral fins. It lives in coastal waters, often on rocky reefs, sometimes over sandy bottoms and frequently near kelp beds; juveniles form schools in tidal pools. As a bottom searcher it feeds on crustaceans, molluscs and bryozoans. It is a pelagic spawner. The sargo is a valued sport and food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Grunt?
The Grunt has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Dark vertical bar behind the pectoral fins; inhabits rocky reefs near kelp forests.
Where does the Grunt live?
The Grunt lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific off California and Mexico; rocky reefs and kelp forests.
How big does the Grunt get?
The Grunt grows to a maximum of about 58 cm.
Is the Grunt dangerous to humans?
No, the Grunt is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Grunt edible?
Yes, the 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 Anisotremus
More from the family Haemulidae
Want the complete picture on the Grunt?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Grunt is one of 12,519 species in the app.