Fin's Fish Guide
The Spottail grunt (Haemulon maculicauda) is a saltwater fish of the family Haemulidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The spottail grunt is a grunt of the family Haemulidae from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a silvery body with a conspicuous dark blotch on the tail base, to which the name refers. By day it gathers in schools around coastal reefs; at night it disperses over sandy bottoms to forage on small benthic invertebrates. Grunts owe their name to the grunting sound they make by grinding their pharyngeal teeth, amplified by the swim bladder. The spottail grunt is marketed fresh and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spottail grunt?
The Spottail grunt has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Dark blotch on the caudal peduncle; makes grunting sounds and shoals near reefs during the day.
Where does the Spottail grunt live?
The Spottail grunt lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific; coastal reefs and adjacent sandy bottoms.
How big does the Spottail grunt get?
The Spottail grunt grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Spottail grunt dangerous to humans?
No, the Spottail grunt is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Spottail grunt edible?
Yes, the Spottail grunt is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Haemulon
More from the family Haemulidae
Want the complete picture on the Spottail grunt?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spottail grunt is one of 12,519 species in the app.