Blotched Grinner

Saurida differs from all other lizardfishes by possessing several rows of villiform teeth extending outward onto the lips beyond the normal row of large canine, and 9 instead of 8 pelvic rays. The species is recognized by the large dark blotches below the dorsal fins (Ref. 48635).Description: Characterized by greyish color; mottled with brown dorsally; visible teeth when mouth is closed; dorsal fin origin behind midpoint between snout and adipose fin; vertical from tip of pectoral equal with level of fourth to sixth predorsal scales; pectoral fins just reaching level of pelvic fin origin (Ref. 90102).

Dorsal spines (total): 0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 10 - 11; Analspines: 0; Analsoft rays: 9 - 10

Occurs in inshore waters (Ref. 75154).Benthic in sand, mud, rock and eel-grass habitats (Ref. 58302). Solitary on sand and silt bottoms (Ref 90102). Feeds on small fishes (Ref. 89972). Found primarily inshore, e.g. in mangroves and seagrass beds, also near streams and river mouths.

Benthic in sand, mud, rock and eel-grass habitats (Ref. 58302). Solitary on sand and silt bottoms (Ref 90102). Feeds on small fishes (Ref. 89972). Found primarily inshore, e.g. in mangroves and seagrass beds, also near streams and river mouths. Piscivorous. Caught with artisanal gear. Sold fresh in markets.

fisheries: commercial