Grubfish

The grubfish is common on sandy or rocky bottoms. It is also called sandperch and sandsmelt. It can be up to 25 cm in length and feeds on small animals and plankton. 

Grubfishes often sit on a rock and wait for a prey to pass by. If you get too close, will it swim away for a short distance and find a new viewing spot. It can be frustrating to get close enough for a photo.

Blacktail Grubfish is often seen in shallow water by snorkelers. It has a black spot on the tail and prefers sandy bottom.

Maldivian Grubfish is only known in Maldives and is recognized by a black fist dorsal fin.

Thousand-spot Grubfish has a white spot on the tail. It prefers small rocks.