Black-spot
tuskfish
Choerodon schoenleinii
Family Labridae
updated
Aug 10
Where
seen? This large fish is rarely seen. Usually near reefy
shores.
Features: To about 90cm and can
weigh 9kgs! The one seen was about 20cm long. It has a black spot
at the middle of the dorsal fin base. Juveniles have a large white
saddle spot after the black spot. Body scales each with a blue centre
forming a horizontal row of spots along the side of the body. Usually
found alone in sandy areas and those with seaweeds.
What does it eat? It rests on
the bottom during the day and forages at night, often by overturning
large stones. It is a solitary hunter, eating hard-shelled prey such
as crabs, snails and sea urchins.
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Sentosa,
Jul 05 |
Human uses: It is sold fresh and as live seafood
in some places.
Status and threats: The
Black-spot tuskfish is currently being considered for listing
on the IUCN Red List of internationally threatened fishes.
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Beting Bronok,
Jun 10 |
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Periplus Editions. 292 pp.