Fin's Fish Guide
The White-edged lyretail (Variola albimarginata) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 65 cm.
Asia: Australia, Sri Lanka, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Mayotte, Fiji and others
Description
The white-edged lyretail is a grouper (Epinephelidae) from reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 65 cm and has an elongate, red-brown body dotted with small pink to violet spots and a striking lyre-shaped tail with a narrow white margin. As a predator it shelters by day near coral and hunts smaller fish and crustaceans. In some areas it may carry ciguatera; on contact the fish is harmless.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the White-edged lyretail?
The White-edged lyretail has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the White-edged lyretail live?
The White-edged lyretail lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, Sri Lanka, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Mayotte, Fiji and others
How big does the White-edged lyretail get?
The White-edged lyretail grows to a maximum of about 65 cm.
Is the White-edged lyretail dangerous to humans?
No, the White-edged lyretail 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 White-edged lyretail edible?
The White-edged lyretail is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Variola
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the White-edged lyretail?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the White-edged lyretail is one of 12,519 species in the app.