Plectropomus oligacanthus (Bleeker, 1855)
Highfin coralgrouper
Plectropomus oligacanthus
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Epinephelidae (Groupers)
Max. size:  75 cm TL (male/unsexed); max.weight: 1,200.0 g
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 5 - 147 m, non-migratory
Distribution:  Indo-West Pacific: Philippines, Indonesia, New Guinea, northeastern Australia (Cape York to northern Great Barrier Reef) Belau, Truk, Caroline Islands, Marshall Islands, and the Solomon Islands. Reported from Malaysia (Ref. 5756).
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 7-8; Dorsal soft rays (total): 10-12; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 8-8. Description: Characterized by reddish brown to red color; head with oblique blue lines; blue spots and dashes on body and fins; front of jaws with pair of large canines; 1-4large canines on side of lower jaw; elongate body, greatest depth 2.9-3.9 in SL; emarginate caudal fin; pectoral fins 2.1-2.4 in head length; pelvic fins 1.9-2.2 in head length (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  Inhabits drop-offs and steep channel slopes (Ref. 9710). Very little has been published on its biology. Reported to forage in groups of two or three for rock- and sand living crustaceans and fishes. Rare in most areas (Ref. 9710). In the Hong Kong live fish markets (Ref. 27253).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 21 November 2016 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  reports of ciguatera poisoning


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