Mottled Soapfish
Rypticus bicolor
- Group: Other
- Typical depth: 3–68 m
- Max size: 28 cm
- For divers: safe
- IUCN status: LC
The mottled soapfish often lies on its side in caves and crevices, motionless by day, before coming out at night to hunt small fish on the reef. When handled it releases a soapy, bitter mucus from its skin that lathers in the water and deters most predators.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Perciformes › Grammistidae › Rypticus
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 275957.
FAQ
- How deep does the Mottled Soapfish live?
- The Mottled Soapfish (Rypticus bicolor) is typically found at 3–68 m.
- Is the Mottled Soapfish dangerous to divers?
- The Mottled Soapfish is harmless to divers.
- How big does the Mottled Soapfish get?
- The Mottled Soapfish grows to about 28 cm.