Haemulon plumierii (Lacepède 1801)

Side of head has narrow blue stripes; scales above lateral line much larger than those below (Ref. 26938). Scale rows just below lateral line oblique; color variable but usually light yellowish (Ref. 13442).

Oviparous, distinct pairing during breeding (Ref. 205).

Dorsal spines (total): 12; Dorsal soft rays (total): 17; Analspines: 3; Analsoft rays: 9

Found in dense aggregations during the day on patch reefs, around coral formations, or on sandy bottoms (Ref. 9710). Juveniles common in Thalassia testudinum beds (Ref. 5217). Feeds on crustaceans, small mollusks, and small fishes. Carnivore (Ref. 57616). Frequently exhibits a territorial 'kissing' display in which two contenders push each other on the lips with their mouths wide open (Ref. 9710).

Found in dense aggregations during the day on patch reefs, around coral formations, or on sandy bottoms (Ref. 9710). Juveniles common in Thalassia testudinum beds (Ref. 5217). Feeds on crustaceans, small mollusks, and small fishes. Frequently exhibits a territorial 'kissing' display in which two contenders push each other on the lips with their mouths wide open (Ref. 9710). Marketed fresh. Has been reared in captivity (Ref. 35420).

fisheries: minor commercial; gamefish: yes; aquarium: public aquariums; price category: medium; price reliability: very questionable: based on ex-vessel price for species in this family