Fin's Fish Guide
The Niger hind (Cephalopholis nigri) is a brackish-water fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 31 cm.
Description
The Niger hind is a small grouper of the family Serranidae from the eastern Atlantic off the coast of West Africa. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a red-brown body, often studded with fine dark or light spots. It lives on mud, sand and rock bottoms in coastal waters, usually above 50 m, and exceptionally enters brackish lagoons and estuaries. As an ambush hunter it catches small fishes and crustaceans. The species is a food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Niger hind?
The Niger hind has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Small West African jewel bass; protogynous hermaphrodite and ambush predator.
Where does the Niger hind live?
The Niger hind lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic off West Africa; muddy, sandy and rocky bottoms.
How big does the Niger hind get?
The Niger hind grows to a maximum of about 31 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Niger hind dangerous to humans?
No, the Niger hind is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Niger hind edible?
Yes, the Niger hind is commonly eaten.
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 Niger hind?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Niger hind is one of 12,519 species in the app.