Common names
Common grunt, Flannelmouth grunt, Black grunt, Redmouth grunt, Boar grunt, Gray grunt, White snapper, Ruby red lips, Key West grunt
White Grunt
Haemulon plumierii
- Saltwater
- Least concern
Max length20.75 in
Common length11.75 in
Length typeTotal Length
Max weight9 lb 11 oz
Depth range10 - 132 ft
Max age12 years
Water typeSaltwater
Fish info
IUCN Vulnerability status
Short description
White Grunt have a body that ranges from silvery-blue to creamy yellow and bronze, with several vertical blue and yellow stripes. They can change their colour based on their surroundings. The fish has a distinct red snout and an elongated almond-shaped body, with a forked caudal tail and falcate pectoral fins. Their anal and dorsal fins are fully covered in scales. Unlike snappers or groupers, they have a strong, fixed lower jawbone. They also have numerous rough teeth and dorsal spines. Instead of canines, this species has small, blunt teeth on its jaws and lacks teeth on the roof of its mouth. However, its pharyngeal teeth are well-developed.
Habitat
Commonly found in areas like patch reefs, around coral formations, sandy bottoms, docks, and mangroves. They generally live offshore, but the young White Grunts are located inshore.
Distribution
Western Atlantic: Chesapeake Bay, through the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean southward to Brazil. Including Antilles.
Behaviour
They're typical nocturnal carnivores feeding on crustaceans (especially shrimp), small molluscs, and small fishes. Juveniles feed on copepods and plankton. Frequently exhibits a territorial 'kissing' display in which two contenders push each other on the lips with their mouths wide open. White grunt produce a “grunting” sound by grinding their pharyngeal teeth in the back of their throat; their grunting sound is amplified by the air bladder. This sound is a call of distress; for example, it can be heard when they're caught by anglers.
Edibility
The flaky white flesh of this species is highly edible and cooks well. A historic Florida dish, "grits and grunts", is traditionally prepared with white grunt, however, their commercial value is low.
Lure suggestion
White grunts are typically caught with rigs (such as the fish finder and drop shot) and live baits. They can be caught by bait casting with a hook and line, or by using a net. Other effective methods for catching include bottom fishing and spin casting. They'll also hit small spoons, small jigs, and other small lures. Good bait: cut pieces of fish, squid strips & shrimp.
Similar species
Other similar species
French grunt