Latin name

Priacanthus blochii

Other name

Bloch's bigeye, blotched bigeye, glass-eye bigeye, shortfin bigeye, silver big-eye and goggle eye.

Identification

Paeony bulleye has an elongated body covered with coarse cycloid scales. The scales are modified, with strong barbs, and there are scales on the gill membrane. The eyes are very large, their diameter is ½ the length of the head. Behind the retina there is a shiny reflective layer (Tapetum lucidum), which gives the eyes their "glow". The mouth is large and slanted. 

Features of fish fins

Dorsal spines (total): 10; Dorsal soft rays (total): 12 - 14; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 13 - 16. 

Fish colouring

The coloration of the body, head and fins is reddish brown. There is a black spot at the base of the first 3 rays of the pelvic fins. Fish may change color depending on environmental conditions.

Distribution

Found in waters from southern Africa to French Polynesia and Australia. The species has also been recorded in the Red Sea.

Habitat

Tropical marine benthopelagic fish. They live in lagoons and reef areas at depths from 8 to 50 meters in caves or under ledges. 

Size

The maximum length of this fish is 36.1 centimeters. Maximum published weight: 403.00 grams.

Behavior

Paeony bulleye are often found in muddy areas, alone or in small groups. They are nocturnal.

Food and feeding habits

They are predators that feed on fish, polychaetes and crustaceans. 

Reproduction

The eggs, larvae and early juvenile stages of Paeony bulleye are pelagic.

Fishing

This species is commercially important for fishing. Sometimes caught in trawls.

Relationship with a person

Harmless. Used in aquariums.