White grunt (Haemulon plumierii) is a saltwater species recorded in the United States. It is mainly found over reef, at depths of 3–40 m.
Scientific name: Haemulon plumierii · Water: Saltwater
Size: up to 53 cm
The white grunt is a haemulid found in dense aggregations during the day on patch reefs, around coral formations or on sandy bottoms, with juveniles common in turtle-grass beds. It feeds on crustaceans, small mollusks and small fishes, and it frequently exhibits a territorial kissing display in which two contenders push each other on the lips with their mouths wide open; it is marketed fresh and has been reared in captivity. It is recorded from 3 to 40 m. Its range is the western Atlantic, from Chesapeake Bay through the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean southward to Brazil, including the Antilles. Maximum length is about 53 cm total length, commonly about 30 cm, and it can live 13 years, maturing at about 18.3 cm. It is a minor commercial species, a gamefish and a public aquarium fish, with a medium price category. Fishing vulnerability is high at 62 of 100 and resilience low. IUCN lists it as least concern.
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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