Fin's Fish Guide
The Ocellated soapfish (Grammistops ocellatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Solomon Is., Christmas I., Fiji, Tahiti and others
Description
The ocellated soapfish is a soapfish (Serranidae) from reef and rocky water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a stocky, dark-brown body with a conspicuous eyespot on the dorsal fin. As a shy, nocturnal fish it shelters in caves and crevices and hunts small fish and crustaceans. Under stress its skin secretes a bitter, soapy mucus (grammistin) that deters predators; by touch it is not seriously harmful to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ocellated soapfish?
The Ocellated soapfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Ocellated soapfish live?
The Ocellated soapfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Solomon Is., Christmas I., Fiji, Tahiti and others
How big does the Ocellated soapfish get?
The Ocellated soapfish grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Ocellated soapfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Ocellated soapfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the Ocellated soapfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ocellated soapfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.