Fin's Fish Guide
The Silver grunter (Mesopristes argenteus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Terapontidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The silver grunter is a perch-like fish of the family Terapontidae from the Indo-West Pacific. The species reaches about 30 cm and has a silvery, streamlined body. It is euryhaline: adults live inshore near mangroves and in fresh water, while juveniles often occur in the lower reaches of creeks and sometimes ascend several kilometres into fresh water. As an omnivore it feeds on algae, detritus, insects and small invertebrates. The male guards and fans the eggs. The species is eaten locally.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Silver grunter?
The Silver grunter has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Euryhaline grunter that moves far up into fresh water; the male tends the eggs.
Where does the Silver grunter live?
The Silver grunter lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Indo-West Pacific, near mangroves and in fresh water.
How big does the Silver grunter get?
The Silver grunter grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Silver grunter dangerous to humans?
No, the Silver grunter is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Silver grunter edible?
The Silver grunter is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Mesopristes
More from the family Terapontidae
Want the complete picture on the Silver grunter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Silver grunter is one of 12,519 species in the app.