Introduction
Anisotremus virginicus, commonly known as the porkfish, is a species of tropical fish native to the western Atlantic Ocean. It is occasionally abundant, usually near reefs.
Who is it?
Morphology
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Average size25 cm
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Maximum size40 cm
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Patternhorizontal stripes
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Average size25 cm
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Maximum size40 cm
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Patternhorizontal stripes
How to recognize This fish ?
The porkfish is tricolored with a mostly silver body covered in horizontal yellow stripes. Two black bands are present on the head, distinguishing it from similar species in the Western Atlantic.
It has a close relative in the Eastern tropical Pacific: Anisotremus taeniatus.
Behaviour & Life cycle
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dietomnivorous with carnivorous tendency
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Sociabilityliving in a group or alone
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territorialYes
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Way of livingnocturnal
This species is known to emit sounds easily audible by humans.
During the day, the porkfish shelters alone or in small groups in crevices and ledges. It may become territorial and display intimidation behavior towards intruding neighbors. At night, it ventures out to hunt mollusks and crustaceans with its powerful jaw.
Youthful porkfish participate in cleaning sessions with large fish and sea turtles.
Reproduction
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Reproductionovipare qui pond en eau libre
The porkfish is an oviparous fish that spawns in open water.
Harmless species
This species does not represent any particular threats to humans when encountered in its natural environment.
Origin and distribution
Geographic distribution & Conservation
Anisotremus virginicus is widely distributed in the Western tropical and subtropical Atlantic. Its range extends from the northeast coast of Florida and the Bahamas to the Gulf of Mexico, from the Florida Keys to the Yucatán Peninsula and Cuba, and throughout the Caribbean Sea. Further south, it is found along the coasts of South America, from Venezuela to Brazil, at least as far as Ilhabela, including Fernando de Noronha and Rocas Atoll. Bermuda populations are considered introduced.
Conservation status of populations (IUCN)
Where to see this species?
What is its habitat?
Natural environment characteristics
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Depth2 - 20 m
Biotope presentation
Anisotremus virginicus mainly frequents shallow rocky and coral areas, typically at depths of less than 20 meters. It can also be seen in shallow reefs, mangroves, and artificial reefs, including man-made environments like ports and docks. The porkfish is sometimes difficult to spot during the day as it tends to remain hidden.
Fishkeeping
Not recommended
We do not recommend keeping this species in an aquarium. It has unpredictable needs which, if not met, generate significant stress, potentially leading to a shorter life expectancy, an interruption of its growth or the development of pathogens.
To go further
Species of the same family
To read on the web
Sources & Contributions
Participation & Validation
The Fishipedia team and specialist contributors are committed to providing high-quality content. However, although the information comes from scientific sources or testimonials from specialists, the cards may contain inaccuracies.
Benoit Chartrer
Translation
Translation done with the valuable contribution of our translators, who make this information available to a wider audience. We sincerely thank them for their commitment.
Marine Kassel
Where to see this species?
Scientific partners
Tags
Species of the same family
