Harry hotlips (Plectorhinchus gibbosus) is a saltwater, freshwater, brackish species recorded in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia. It is mainly found over reef, at depths of 8–25 m. The main season in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia runs all year.
Scientific name: Plectorhinchus gibbosus · Water: Saltwater, Freshwater, Brackish · Season: All year
Size: up to 75 cm
Harry hotlips is a haemulid of coastal reefs, sandbanks and the approaches to estuaries, and it enters fresh water. Its juveniles are the interesting part: small ones drift on their sides along sheltered sandy shorelines, mimicking a dead leaf. Adults range from protected inshore reefs out to deeper offshore water, sometimes swimming in small groups. Usually between 8 and 25 m, and in season all year. Maximum about 75 cm total length, with a fishing vulnerability of 45 out of 100 and medium population recovery. An excellent food fish.
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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