Arrowhead Soapfish
Belonoperca chabanaudi
- Group: Other
- Typical depth: 4–50 m
- Max size: 15 cm
- For divers: safe
- IUCN status: LC
A small, secretive soapfish of steep coral slopes, the arrowhead soapfish hovers quietly in caves through the day and hunts small fish and crustaceans. Its skin produces grammistin, a bitter toxin that makes it an unappealing mouthful, and a bright yellow spot near the tail is often the first thing a diver notices.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Perciformes › Liopropomatidae › Belonoperca
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 218173.
FAQ
- How deep does the Arrowhead Soapfish live?
- The Arrowhead Soapfish (Belonoperca chabanaudi) is typically found at 4–50 m.
- Is the Arrowhead Soapfish dangerous to divers?
- The Arrowhead Soapfish is harmless to divers.
- How big does the Arrowhead Soapfish get?
- The Arrowhead Soapfish grows to about 15 cm.