Chinamanfish (Symphorus nematophorus) is a saltwater species recorded in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia. It is mainly found over reef, at depths of 20–100 m. The main season in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia runs all year.
Scientific name: Symphorus nematophorus · Water: Saltwater · Season: All year
Size: up to 100 cm
Adult chinamanfish live on coral reefs from shallow water down past 50 m, usually alone, and feed mainly on fishes. Commonly about 35 cm, but it can reach 1 m. A high-priced fish sold in Hong Kong live fish markets - but note that it is frequently ciguatoxic and is banned from sale in Australia, with the risk highest in large individuals.
Caution: large individuals carry a ciguatera risk. Heat, cold and marinating do not remove the toxin, which concentrates in the liver, roe and head, so avoid eating those parts. Seek medical help if numbness, tingling or a reversed sense of hot and cold follows a meal.
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