Spotted Sandperch

Parapercis hexophtalma

Spotted Sandperch (Parapercis hexophtalma) is a small Indo-Pacific sandperch associated with sandy and rubble bottoms on shallow reefs. It lies in wait on the substrate and strikes small crustaceans and fish; it is not a major game species.

Saltwater

Spotted Sandperch reference image — Diego Delso, cc-by-sa, via Wikimedia Commons. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Identification points

Cream to pale body covered with many small dark spots, including on the head and body
Long, low sandperch body with a pointed snout and large mouth
Two distinct dorsal fins with a spiny front section typical of sandperches

Habitat

Shallow coastal sandy flats, rubble patches, and reef edges, often resting partly buried or settled on the bottom in clear tropical water.

Bait notes

Best taken on small live or dead shrimp, sandworms, squid strips, and tiny baitfish pieces. Small soft plastics, grub tails, and micro jigs bounced along the bottom can also work.

Behavior

A benthic ambush feeder that stays close to the substrate and rushes small prey such as shrimp, crabs, and tiny fishes. Often solitary and wary, with quick darting strikes near the bottom.

Caution

Sharp teeth and spiny dorsal fin can nick fingers; handle carefully. Because it is small and not commonly targeted for food, local take rules and any reef-fish consumption advisories should be checked before keeping one.

Fishing notes

Fish near sandy gutters and reef-sand interfaces with light tackle and small hooks. Keep bait close to the bottom with minimal movement; short hops and slow drifts are effective. It is usually incidental rather than a targeted sport fish.