Fin's Fish Guide
The Shining grunt (Haemulopsis nitidus) is a saltwater fish of the family Haemulidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The shining grunt is a grunt of the family Haemulidae from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a streamlined, silvery, shining body. It inhabits coastal seas over sandy or muddy bottoms. As a bottom predator it feeds on small crustaceans, worms, molluscs and small fishes. Grunts owe their name to the grunting sound they make with the pharyngeal teeth, amplified by the swim bladder. The shining grunt is a local food fish marketed fresh and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shining grunt?
The Shining grunt has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Glossy silvery body; makes grunting sounds with its pharyngeal teeth.
Where does the Shining grunt live?
The Shining grunt lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; coastal seas over sandy or muddy bottoms.
How big does the Shining grunt get?
The Shining grunt grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Shining grunt dangerous to humans?
No, the Shining grunt is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Shining grunt edible?
Yes, the Shining grunt is commonly eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Shining grunt?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shining grunt is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Haemulopsis
More from the family Haemulidae
Want the complete picture on the Shining grunt?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shining grunt is one of 12,519 species in the app.