Mottled Soapfish

Rypticus bicolor

The Mottled Soapfish, known scientifically as Rypticus bicolor, is a reef fish from the family Grammistidae. It can be identified by its distinctive mottled pattern, with cream to pale-brown blotches on a dark background. These blotches are often poorly defined and can merge together, extending onto the bases of its median fins. The fish has a compressed body shape, with three dorsal spines and 23 to 26 dorsal soft rays. Its lower jaw is notable for a prominent fleshy protuberance and small pores along the ventral surface. This species inhabits rocky reefs in the Eastern Pacific, ranging from Baja California to Peru, including the Galapagos and other offshore islands. It is typically found at depths between 3 and 68 meters, with most occurrences shallower than 40 meters. The Mottled Soapfish is nocturnal, often lying motionless and hidden in caves and crevices during the day. At night, it becomes active, preying on small fish. The Mottled Soapfish is categorized as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List. Divers may encounter this fish sheltering in dark recesses or actively hunting at night, making it an interesting species to observe on a dive.