How to Identify Margate Grunt

To identify Margate Grunt (Pomadasys incisus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Generally silvery-grey to brownish-grey on the back, fading to silvery-white on the belly. Often exhibits faint, irregular dark blotches or bars on the flanks, which can be more pronounced in juveniles or stressed individuals. Fins are typically dusky or yellowish.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Thick, fleshy lips, Relatively large eyes, A series of small pores along the lower jaw, Absence of canine teeth, The presence of 6-7 soft rays in the anal fin

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 12-13 spines and 13-15 soft rays, deeply notched between the spinous and soft-rayed portions.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is moderately forked.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively long and pointed.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 spines and 6-7 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Look for a compressed, silvery-grey body with thick lips and relatively large eyes. Faint dark blotches or bars may be present on the flanks.

2. 2

   Fin Count

   Count the spines and rays in the dorsal fin (12-13 spines, 13-15 soft rays) and anal fin (3 spines, 6-7 soft rays). The low number of anal soft rays is a key identifier.

3. 3

   Mouth and Jaw

   Observe the thick, fleshy lips and the absence of prominent canine teeth. Small pores are visible along the lower jaw.

4. 4

   Sound Production

   If handled, the fish may produce a characteristic 'grunting' sound, which is a definitive feature of the Haemulidae family.

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