Fin's Fish Guide
The Pacific creolefish (Paranthias colonus) is a fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 36 cm.
Description
The Pacific creolefish is a grouper relative (Epinephelidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species has a streamlined, reddish-brown to olive body with a deeply forked tail and often a few pale spots on the back. Unlike most bottom-bound groupers it forms large schools in open water above reefs. Hovering in the current it plucks zooplankton from the water column. It is a food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pacific creolefish?
The Pacific creolefish is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Schooling, plankton-eating grouper of open water above reefs. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with caution or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Pacific creolefish live?
The Pacific creolefish is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific; open water above reefs.
How big does the Pacific creolefish get?
The Pacific creolefish grows to a maximum of about 36 cm. On average the species is around 21 cm.
Is the Pacific creolefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Pacific creolefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Pacific creolefish edible?
Yes, the Pacific creolefish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Paranthias
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the Pacific creolefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pacific creolefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.