How to Identify Blue-spotted Rockcod

To identify Blue-spotted Rockcod (Cephalopholis cyanostigma), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

The body color ranges from reddish-brown to yellowish-brown, densely covered with numerous small, iridescent blue spots. The fins are typically similarly colored with blue spots, and the caudal fin often has a narrow, pale margin. Some individuals may exhibit darker blotches or bands, especially when stressed or displaying.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Numerous small, iridescent blue spots covering the entire body and fins., Relatively small mouth compared to other groupers., Rounded caudal fin., Often has a pale margin on the caudal fin.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 9 spines and 10-11 soft rays. The spinous portion is continuous with the soft-rayed portion, with a slight notch.

Tail fin

Rounded caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively large and rounded, with 17-19 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are inserted slightly behind the pectoral fin base. Anal fin has 3 spines and 8 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Blue Spots

   The most defining characteristic is the dense covering of small, bright blue spots over the entire body and fins. These spots are typically smaller and more numerous than those found on some other blue-spotted groupers.

2. 2

   Body Color

   Observe the base body color, which is usually a reddish-brown to yellowish-brown. This can help distinguish it from species with a more greenish or greyish base color.

3. 3

   Caudal Fin

   Note the rounded shape of the caudal fin, often with a distinct pale or whitish margin, which is a useful identifier.

4. 4

   Size

   This species typically reaches a maximum length of about 30 cm (12 inches), making it one of the smaller groupers in its genus.

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