Painted Grinner

Interesting Info

• The Painted Grinner is a species of fish found in the coastal waters of Australia. They are most commonly found in the northern waters of Australia, from Western Australia to the Great Barrier Reef and down the east coast to Victoria.
• They have a distinct pattern of green and blue stripes on a whitish-brown background, which gives them a “painted” appearance. The body of the Painted Grinner is elongated and laterally compressed, with a large mouth full of sharp teeth and small eyes.
• The Painted Grinner is a carnivorous fish that feeds on small fish, crustaceans, and other invertebrates.
• They are a solitary fish that is usually found swimming alone or in pairs.
• They are ambush predators that are rarely seen as they hide their bodies under the sand and wait motionless for small prey to swim by.
• Estimates of lifespan is between 10 – 20 years in the wild.
• Painted Grinners have been known to breed year-round under optimal conditions. During breeding season, Painted Grinners are known to form pairs, and the female lays the eggs on a hard surface, such as coral or rock. After hatching, the larvae drift with the currents until they settle on the seabed.