Fin's Fish Guide
The Red-cheeked fairy basslet (Pseudanthias huchtii) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Oceania: Australia, Solomon Is., Fiji, Indonesia, Vanuatu, Palau and others
Description
The Red-cheeked fairy basslet is a small sea bass (Serranidae) from the western Pacific. The species grows to about 12 cm and has an elongate, red-pink body. Males are greenish with a conspicuous red-purple cheek stripe. It hovers in schools above coral reef slopes and picks zooplankton from the current. Like many sea basses it changes sex. The fish is harmless to humans and is popular in the aquarium trade.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Red-cheeked fairy basslet?
The Red-cheeked fairy basslet has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly red-orange.
Where does the Red-cheeked fairy basslet live?
The Red-cheeked fairy basslet lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, Solomon Is., Fiji, Indonesia, Vanuatu, Palau and others
How big does the Red-cheeked fairy basslet get?
The Red-cheeked fairy basslet grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Red-cheeked fairy basslet dangerous to humans?
No, the Red-cheeked fairy basslet 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 Red-cheeked fairy basslet edible?
Yes, the Red-cheeked fairy basslet is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pseudanthias
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the Red-cheeked fairy basslet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Red-cheeked fairy basslet is one of 12,519 species in the app.