Fin's Fish Guide
The Pigfish (Orthopristis chrysoptera) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Haemulidae that grows up to 46 cm.
Western Atlantic along the east coast of the USA and the Gulf of Mexico, over sand, seagrass and silty bottoms of coastal water and estuaries; tolerates brackish water.
Description
The pigfish is a silvery grunt of the family Haemulidae (grunts) reaching about 46 cm. The laterally compressed body bears rows of blue-yellow streaks and spots. Like other grunts it can make a grunting sound with its throat teeth and swim bladder, reminiscent of a pig - hence the name. The species forms schools over sand, seagrass and mud bottoms of coastal water and estuaries along the east coast of the USA and the Gulf of Mexico and tolerates brackish water. On the bottom it searches for worms, small crustaceans, molluscs and insect larvae. With its tasty flesh it is a willing panfish and a much-used bait fish for larger predators.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pigfish?
The Pigfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Silvery grunt with blue-yellow stripes and spots; makes a grunting sound like a pig with its pharyngeal teeth and swim bladder.
Where does the Pigfish live?
The Pigfish lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic along the east coast of the USA and the Gulf of Mexico, over sand, seagrass and silty bottoms of coastal water and estuaries; tolerates brackish water.
How big does the Pigfish get?
The Pigfish grows to a maximum of about 46 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Pigfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Pigfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Pigfish edible?
Yes, the Pigfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Orthopristis
More from the family Haemulidae
Want the complete picture on the Pigfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pigfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.