Fin's Fish Guide
The Opaleye (Girella nigricans) is a saltwater fish of the family Kyphosidae that grows up to 66 cm.
Description
The opaleye is a fish of the sea chub and sweep family (Kyphosidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 66 cm and has a deep, oval, olive-green body with conspicuous opal-blue eyes, to which the name refers, and often one or two pale spots on the back. It is a sedentary species of the rocky intertidal zone with strong homing behaviour. As a predominantly herbivorous fish it grazes mainly algae and seagrass, supplemented with small invertebrates taken incidentally. Juveniles live in tide pools. The opaleye is a popular angling fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Opaleye?
The Opaleye has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a plain pattern. Olive-green with striking opal-blue eyes; sedentary, site-faithful algae grazer of the rocky coast.
Where does the Opaleye live?
The Opaleye lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Eastern Pacific; rocky intertidal zone, juveniles in tide pools.
How big does the Opaleye get?
The Opaleye grows to a maximum of about 66 cm.
Is the Opaleye dangerous to humans?
No, the Opaleye is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Opaleye edible?
Yes, the Opaleye is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Girella
More from the family Kyphosidae
Want the complete picture on the Opaleye?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Opaleye is one of 12,519 species in the app.