White grunt
Common grunt
Photo Credit: © Diane Rome Peebles
Family Grunts
Scientific Family Haemulidae
Scientific Name Haemulon plumierii
Spanish Name Ronco arará
ITIS# 169059
Tail shape Forked
Side of head has narrow blue stripes; scales above lateral line much larger than those below. Scale rows just below lateral line oblique; color variable but usually light yellowish
Biology
Found in dense large groups during the day on patch reefs, around coral formations, or on sandy sea bottoms. Juveniles common in seagrass beds. Feeds on crustaceans, small mollusks, and small fishes. Frequently exhibits a territorial 'kissing' display in which two contenders push each other on the lips with their mouths wide open.
Appearance
Body Shape
Compressiform
Color
Main Color: Silver
Other Color: yellow
Other Color: yellow
Common Body Shape
Flattened side to side
Pattern
Striped
Length
Avg Length: 12 inches (30 cm)
Max Length: 21 inches (53 cm)
Max Length: 21 inches (53 cm)
Maximum Weight
9.6 lbs (4400 g)
Specifications
Handling Concerns
Reports of ciguatera poisoning
Conservation Concerns
None
Range in USA
MD-TX
Abundance
Abundant
