Fin's Fish Guide
The Rubberlip grunt (Plectorhinchus mediterraneus) is a saltwater fish of the family Haemulidae that grows up to 80 cm.
Eastern Atlantic from the Bay of Biscay southwards along the coast of West Africa, near rocky bottoms, reefs and harbour walls.
Description
The rubberlip grunt is a robust grunt of the family Haemulidae (grunts) reaching about 80 cm. The sturdy, silvery-grey body stands out for very thick, rubbery lips, from which the species takes its name. Like other grunts it can make a grunting sound with its throat teeth and swim bladder. Despite its scientific name it lives not in the Mediterranean but in the eastern Atlantic, from the Bay of Biscay southward along the West African coast, near rocky bottoms, reefs and harbour walls. Mainly at night it searches the bottom for crustaceans, worms, molluscs and small fish. With its tasty flesh it is a valued commercial and sport fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Rubberlip grunt?
The Rubberlip grunt has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Large, grey grunt with strikingly thick, rubbery lips; produces a grunting sound with its pharyngeal teeth and swim bladder.
Where does the Rubberlip grunt live?
The Rubberlip grunt lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Atlantic from the Bay of Biscay southwards along the coast of West Africa, near rocky bottoms, reefs and harbour walls.
How big does the Rubberlip grunt get?
The Rubberlip grunt grows to a maximum of about 80 cm. On average the species is around 60 cm.
Is the Rubberlip grunt dangerous to humans?
No, the Rubberlip grunt is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Rubberlip grunt edible?
Yes, the Rubberlip grunt is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Rubberlip grunt and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Plectorhinchus
More from the family Haemulidae
Want the complete picture on the Rubberlip grunt?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Rubberlip grunt is one of 12,519 species in the app.