How to Identify French Grunt

To identify French Grunt (Haemulon flavolineatum), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Adults typically have a silvery-white to yellowish body with numerous horizontal yellow to golden-yellow stripes along the sides. The stripes below the lateral line are often diagonal. Fins are usually yellowish. Juveniles are silvery with three prominent dark longitudinal stripes, which fade with age.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Numerous yellow to golden-yellow horizontal stripes on a silvery body (adults), Diagonal stripes below the lateral line, Large eyes, Thick lips, Characteristic 'grunting' sound produced by pharyngeal teeth

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, deeply notched, with 12-13 spines and 15-17 soft rays.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Long and pointed pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 spines and 8-9 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration and Stripes

   Look for the distinctive yellow horizontal stripes on a silvery body. The stripes below the lateral line are often angled downwards and backwards.

2. 2

   Body Shape

   Compressed, oval-shaped body, typical of grunts.

3. 3

   Mouth and Lips

   Terminal mouth with relatively thick lips.

4. 4

   Behavior

   Often seen in large, dense schools during the day, resting over reefs or under ledges. They are nocturnal feeders.

5. 5

   Sound

   If handled, they will often produce a characteristic 'grunting' sound by grinding their pharyngeal teeth, which is amplified by the swim bladder.

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