Crescent-tail bigeye

Priacanthus hamrur

Occurring in

Indian Ocean
Red Sea

10-100m

NightActive

not endangered

The Crescent-tail bigeye is a true shape-shifter, capable of changing its color almost instantaneously from dark red to red-silver, and even to almost completely silver. Its downward-curved mouth corners give it a grim expression, while its large eye shows its watchful nature. It typically has a dark red base color, but it can alter its appearance for camouflage, changing to spotted or even completely silver.

Habitat

Coral reef

Special features

The Crescent-tail bigeye is a true shape-shifter, capable of changing its color almost instantaneously from dark red to red-silver, and even to almost completely silver.

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Appearance

Its downward-curved mouth corners give it a grim expression, while its large eye shows its watchful nature. It typically has a dark red base color, but it can alter its appearance for camouflage, changing to spotted or even completely silver.

Natural enemies

Predatory fish

Dangerous/Venomous

The Crescent-tail bigeye is neither dangerous nor venomous.

Sketch

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1. Big dark eye

Pro tips

Crescent-tail bigeyes are especially fond of hanging around coral branches in clear lagoons and outer reefs.
During the day, they are rather lazy, floating passively over coral forests, beneath overhangs, or near cave entrances. Sometimes, they enjoy other individuals' company, particularly when feeding on zooplankton in strong currents.

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Text: Carolina Leiter

Pic: Felician Hosp

Illustration: Dive Dict