Fin's Fish Guide
The Pigsnout grunt (Pomadasys rogerii) is a brackish-water fish of the family Haemulidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, over sandy and silty bottoms of coastal water and estuaries; tolerates brackish water.
Description
The pigsnout grunt is a silvery grunt of the family Haemulidae (grunts) reaching about 60 cm. The laterally compressed, silvery-grey body stands out for a pointed, somewhat pig-like snout and bears strong spines in the dorsal fin. Like other grunts it can make a grunting sound with its throat teeth and swim bladder. The species forms schools over sand and mud bottoms of coastal water and estuaries along the West African coast and tolerates brackish water; young fish grow up in the sheltered estuaries. On and above the bottom it searches, mainly at night, for worms, crustaceans, molluscs and small fish. With its tasty flesh it is a valued fish for the coastal fishery.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pigsnout grunt?
The Pigsnout grunt has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Silvery grunt with a pointed, pig-like snout and sturdy dorsal fin spines; makes a grunting sound with its pharyngeal teeth and swim bladder.
Where does the Pigsnout grunt live?
The Pigsnout grunt lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, over sandy and silty bottoms of coastal water and estuaries; tolerates brackish water.
How big does the Pigsnout grunt get?
The Pigsnout grunt grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 45 cm.
Is the Pigsnout grunt dangerous to humans?
No, the Pigsnout grunt is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Pigsnout grunt edible?
Yes, the Pigsnout grunt is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pomadasys
More from the family Haemulidae
Want the complete picture on the Pigsnout grunt?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pigsnout grunt is one of 12,519 species in the app.