How to Identify Cacao Grunt

To identify Cacao Grunt (Pomadasys cacao), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

The body is typically silvery-grey to brownish-grey dorsally, fading to silvery-white ventrally. It often exhibits several indistinct, darker longitudinal stripes or rows of spots along the flanks, particularly in younger individuals. The fins are generally dusky or yellowish. The inside of the mouth is often reddish.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

subterminal

Distinctive features

Moderately compressed, oblong body., Relatively small mouth, slightly inferior., A series of small pores on the chin., Often exhibits faint longitudinal stripes or spots., Produces a characteristic 'grunt' sound.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with a deep notch, typically with 12-13 spines and 13-15 soft rays. The spinous portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is moderately forked.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively long and pointed.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 spines and 7-8 soft rays. The second anal spine is typically robust and longer than the third.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Look for a moderately compressed, silvery-grey body with faint longitudinal stripes or rows of spots. The inside of the mouth is often reddish.

2. 2

   Mouth and Chin Pores

   Observe the relatively small, slightly inferior mouth and the presence of small pores on the chin, characteristic of the Haemulidae family.

3. 3

   Fin Spines

   Note the robust and often longer second anal fin spine, a key feature for distinguishing grunts.

4. 4

   Sound Production

   If handled or stressed, the fish may produce a distinct grunting sound, which is a definitive characteristic of the grunt family.

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