Fin's Fish Guide
The Longspine grunt (Pomadasys macracanthus) is a saltwater fish of the family Haemulidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Eastern Pacific; coastal waters from southern Baja California and the Gulf of California to Ecuador.
Description
The longspine grunt is a grunt of the family Haemulidae from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a streamlined, silvery body with a conspicuously long, stout second anal spine, to which the name refers. It inhabits coastal waters over sand and mud bottoms and sometimes enters estuaries. As a bottom predator it feeds on small crustaceans, worms, molluscs and small fishes. Grunts owe their name to the grunting sound they make with the pharyngeal teeth, amplified by the swim bladder. The longspine grunt is a valued food and bycatch fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Longspine grunt?
The Longspine grunt has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Strikingly long, stout second anal fin spine; makes grunting sounds with the pharyngeal teeth.
Where does the Longspine grunt live?
The Longspine grunt lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; coastal waters from southern Baja California and the Gulf of California to Ecuador.
How big does the Longspine grunt get?
The Longspine grunt grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Longspine grunt dangerous to humans?
No, the Longspine grunt is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Longspine grunt edible?
Yes, the Longspine grunt is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pomadasys
More from the family Haemulidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Longspine grunt is one of 12,519 species in the app.