Species GuideSilver Grunt

Silver Grunt

Pomadasys argenteus

Haemulidae family · Coastal

Least Concern

A silvery, stout-bodied grunt very common in UAE inshore waters. Named for the audible grunting sound it produces by grinding its pharyngeal teeth. A frequent catch for UAE shore and boat anglers targeting sandy bottom species and a decent table fish.

Species Stats

Max Length

60 cm

Max Weight

4 kg

Depth Range

5–80 m

Diet

Crustaceans, molluscs, worms

Habitat

Sandy and muddy inshore grounds, estuaries

Local Name (Arabic)

نقروف

Fun Facts

  • 1

    Can produce an audible grunting sound by grinding its pharyngeal teeth together.

  • 2

    One of the most abundant inshore fish species in the UAE.

  • 3

    Often caught in large numbers when conditions are right.

Found In

Abu DhabiDubaiSharjahAjmanUmm Al QuwainRas Al Khaimah

Quick Info

FamilyHaemulidae
HabitatCoastal
EdibilityGood
CoastPersian Gulf
Dangernone

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