Fin's Fish Guide
The Plain soapfish (Rypticus randalli) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
Randall's soapfish is a soapfish from the western Atlantic, ranging from the West Indies and Panama to Santa Catarina in Brazil. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a stocky, brownish body. Soapfishes take their name from a soapy, bitter and mildly toxic skin mucus (grammistin) that they secrete when disturbed as a defence. As a bottom-dweller the fish lives on reefs and hunts small prey. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Plain soapfish?
The Plain soapfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. When disturbed it secretes a soapy, slightly poisonous skin mucus (grammistine)
Where does the Plain soapfish live?
The Plain soapfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic
How big does the Plain soapfish get?
The Plain soapfish grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Plain soapfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Plain 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.
Is the Plain soapfish edible?
The Plain soapfish is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Plain soapfish?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Rypticus
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the Plain soapfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Plain soapfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.