How to Identify Peacock Hind

To identify Peacock Hind (Cephalopholis argus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Dark brown to reddish-brown body covered with numerous small, iridescent blue spots, each typically ringed in black. The fins are similarly spotted. A distinctive pale bar is often present on the chin.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Numerous small, iridescent blue spots covering the entire body and fins, Often a pale bar on the chin, Large mouth with prominent lips, Robust body

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 9 spines and 17-19 soft rays. The spiny and soft-rayed portions are continuous.

Tail fin

Rounded caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Large, rounded pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are relatively short, originating below or slightly behind the pectoral fin base.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Color and Spots

   The most defining characteristic is the dark body (brown to reddish-brown) covered in numerous, distinct, iridescent blue spots, each often outlined in black. No other grouper in its range has this exact pattern.

2. 2

   Chin Bar

   Look for a pale or whitish bar on the chin, which is frequently present and can aid in identification.

3. 3

   Fin Shape

   The rounded caudal fin and continuous dorsal fin (spiny and soft-rayed portions) are typical of Cephalopholis species.

4. 4

   Size

   Adults typically reach a maximum length of about 60 cm, which helps distinguish them from much larger grouper species.

Explore Peacock Hind