Grunts
any of about 150 species of marine fishes of the family Haemulidae (Pomadasyidae) in the order Perciformes. Grunts are found along shores in warm and tropical waters of the major oceans. They are snapperlike but lack canine teeth. They are named for the piglike grunts they can produce with their pharyngeal (throat) teeth. Some (genus Haemulon) are further characterized by bright, reddish mouth linings. Grunts are edible and valued as food, though most species are small. Some are noted for a behavioral trait in which two individuals approach and “kiss.” The purpose of this, whether sexual or aggressive, is not known.
The Oriental sweetlips, Plectorhinchus vittatus, a sweetlips of the family Haemulidae, is found in Indo-West Pacific oceans. Its length is up to 85 cm. Juveniles are striped black. As they age, the black is reduced and become more yellow.. It inhabits coral reefs and feeds on crustaceans, snails, slugs, and worms. This common name can also refer to the species Plectorhinchus orientalis
Plectorhinchus picus is a Grunt from the Western Pacific. It occasionally makes its way into the aquarium trade. It grows to a size of 84cm in length.
The harlequin sweetlips, Plectorhinchus chaetodonoides, a sweetlips of the family Haemulidae, is found in Indo-West Pacific oceans. Its length is up to 72 cm.
Juveniles are brown with large white blotches and mimic the movement of a poisonous flatworm for defence against predators. They gain more spots and the spots reverse from white to black as they age.
It inhabits coral reefs and feeds on crustaceans, mollusks and other fish.