Atlantic Latin Grunt

Haemulon atlanticus

The Atlantic latin grunt is a reef fish found in the western Atlantic, ranging from Costa Rica to Brazil. It inhabits estuarine and coastal waters, often seen around coral reefs and sandy or rubble substrates. Divers may encounter this species at depths up to 30 meters, although most sightings occur shallower than 20 meters. The largest recorded individual reached a standard length of 22.4 cm. This species is harmless to humans and has been assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN. During a dive, the Atlantic latin grunt can be seen swimming in schools, adding a dynamic element to the underwater scenery. Its presence is a common sight across its range, contributing to the biodiversity of the reef ecosystems it inhabits.