Caribbean Fish ID

Acanthuridae

Family of fish also known as Surgeonfish, characterized by their thin, oval bodies and a spine on each side of the caudal peduncle.

Carangidae

Family of fish known as Jacks; predators and fast swimmers, identifiable by their small caudal peduncle and deeply forked caudal fin.

Haemulidae

Family of fish known as Grunts, they have pointed heads and are smaller than snappers with a deeper notch in the caudal fin.

Lutjanidae

Family of fish known as Snappers, characterized by a triangular head and large mouths with prominent canine teeth.

Serranidae

Family of fish known as Groupers, which are large-bodied, solitary carnivores that typically live near the bottom.

Pomacanthidae

Family of fish known as Angelfish, which are larger than butterflyfish and have rounded foreheads and various colors.

Chaetodontidae

Family of fish known as Butterflyfish, characterized by their round and thin bodies, and typically found alone or in pairs.

Balistidae

Family of fish known as Triggerfish, recognized by their elongated dorsal spines that can be raised.

Monacanthidae

Family of fish known as Filefishes, which have an elongated dorsal spine that can be raised.

Pomacentridae

Family of fish known as Damselfish, small and oval, often territorial with brightly colored juveniles.

Labridae

Family of fish known as Wrasses, generally smaller and more elongated than parrotfish, many are hermaphrodites.

Scaridae

Family of fish known as Parrotfish, recognized by their powerful jaws and fused teeth; significant herbivores.

Sphyraenidae

Family of fish known as Barracuda, featuring a large, elongated body with long jaws and numerous teeth.