Fin's Fish Guide
The Panama grunt (Pomadasys panamensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Haemulidae that grows up to 43 cm.
Eastern Pacific; coastal waters over sand and mud bottoms, sometimes estuaries.
Description
The Panama grunt is a grunt of the family Haemulidae from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 43 cm and has a streamlined, silvery body. It inhabits coastal waters over sand and mud bottoms and sometimes enters estuaries. As a bottom predator it feeds on small crustaceans, worms, molluscs and small fishes. Grunts owe their name to the grunting sound they make with the pharyngeal teeth, amplified by the swim bladder. The Panama grunt is a valued food and bycatch fish. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Panama grunt?
The Panama grunt has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Silvery bottom-dwelling grunt of sandy and muddy bottoms; makes grunting sounds with its pharyngeal teeth.
Where does the Panama grunt live?
The Panama grunt lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; coastal waters over sand and mud bottoms, sometimes estuaries.
How big does the Panama grunt get?
The Panama grunt grows to a maximum of about 43 cm.
Is the Panama grunt dangerous to humans?
No, the Panama grunt is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Panama grunt edible?
Yes, the Panama grunt is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pomadasys
More from the family Haemulidae
Want the complete picture on the Panama grunt?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Panama grunt is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone