Porkfish (Anisotremus virginicus)

Also known as Atlantic Porkfish, Dogfish, Paragrate Grunt, Sweetlips

Description

Also known as Atlantic Porkfish, Dogfish, Paragrate Grunt, Sweetlips.

Found during the day, close to shelter in stationary schools, dispersing at night, hunting for food, over shallow, rocky bottoms, of coastal reefs.
They feed on benthic crustaceans, fish and invertebrates.
Length - 40.6cm
Depth - 2-20m
Widespread Western Atlantic, Caribbean

In some areas of the world 'Grunts' are better known as 'Sweetlips' distinguished from other species by their very large rubbery lips.
'Grunts'because they "grunt," the grunting sound is produced by their flat teeth plates rubbing together and this is amplified by their air bladders.
Found either singly or in schools hovering or motionless over the reef during the day, becoming nocturnal predators. Ref: https://www.fishbase.se/summary/Anisotremus-virginicus

Related creatures

Heads up! Many creatures change during their life. Juvenile fish become adults and some change shape or their colour. Some species change sex and others just get older. The following creature(s) are known relatives of the Porkfish. Click the image(s) to explore further or hover over to get a better view!

Porkfish (Juvenile)

Porkfish (Juvenile)

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