Cephalopholis nigripinnis (Valenciennes, 1828)
Blackfin grouper
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Epinephelidae (Groupers)
Max. size:  28 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 0 - 60 m
Distribution:  Indian Ocean: From East coast of Africa (Kenay to South Africa) to Sumatra; Comoros Is., Mascarene Is., Maldives, Sri Lanka, Chagos I.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 9-9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 14-16; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 8-9. Characterized by red color grading to dark brown on posterior part of the body; posterior edge of operculum with prominent brown "ear" spot; body scales ctenoid, including abdomen; greatest depth of body 2.7-3.1 in SL; rounded caudal fin; pelvic fins 1.8-2.2 in head length (Ref. 90102); interorbital area convex; rounded preopercle, finely serrate, lower edge fleshy; subopercle and interopercle usually smooth; maxilla reaching well past eye (Ref. 089707).
Biology:  Common throughout its range, the species inhabits coral-rich areas. It feeds on small fishes and crustaceans (Ref. 89707). Solitary (Ref 90102).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 15 January 2018 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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