Barred Soapfish

Diploprion bifasciatus

The Barred Soapfish, a member of the family Liopropomatidae, is a reef-associated fish commonly found in the Indo-West Pacific region. Its distribution extends from the Maldives and India to Papua New Guinea, reaching north to southern Japan and south to Lord Howe Island. Divers can encounter this species at depths ranging from 1 to 100 meters, though it is more frequently observed between 5 and 50 meters. The Barred Soapfish is typically yellow, but can appear nearly all black. Juveniles mimic the coloration of local venomous blennies, which can be yellow or grey, as a form of protective mimicry. This species is known for its compressed body shape, with a body width that is 3.3 to 4 times its depth. It has a distinctive dorsal fin with 8 spines and 13 to 16 soft rays, and an anal fin with 2 spines and 12 to 13 soft rays. The Barred Soapfish is a predatory fish, feeding mainly on other fish, which it swallows whole using its expandable jaws. When stressed, it secretes a skin toxin known as grammistin. Divers observing the Barred Soapfish should be aware of its venomous nature. While it is not considered a threat to humans, the toxin can be a concern if the fish is handled. The species is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.