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Bluestriped grunt

Bluestriped grunt

(Haemulon sciurus)

The bluestriped grunt occurs in the western Atlantic from Florida to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean. It prefers shallow water over coral reefs and drop-offs to deeper water. As juveniles, these grunts are abundant in sea grass beds.

The bluestriped grunt has a yellow head and body with long horizontal blue stripes along the sides of its body. This grunt has a black caudal fin, which distinguishes it from the French grunt, whose caudal fin is yellow.

Look for schools of the bluestriped grunt near the tunnel in the Ocean Voyager gallery.

Fun Facts

  • The bluestriped grunt feeds on crustaceans and small fish.
  • This grunt has been observed hovering in cleaning stations.
  • The bluestriped grunt also is known for stealing damselfish eggs.
  • This species congregates in small to midsized schools.
  • These schools offer protection against predators.
  • Download full fact sheet

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