Sea chubs

Brassy chub (Kyphosus vaigiensis)

The Brassy chub (Kyphosus vaigiensis) belongs to the family Kyphosidae (sea chubs) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It is an omnivore and usually seen in small groups. It reaches about 50 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. It is not dangerous to divers.

Brassy chub (Kyphosus vaigiensis), a Red Sea fish of the sea chubs family
Photo: iNaturalist / Wikimedia Commons

Quick facts

Scientific nameKyphosus vaigiensis
FamilySea chubs (Kyphosidae)
Common name (IT)Pesce piloto del Pacifico
Common name (EN)Brassy chub
Maximum size50 cm
Depth1–50 m
DistributionRed Sea and Indo-Pacific
IUCN statusLC — Least Concern

Description

Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.

Where it lives

Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.

  • Red Sea
  • Indo-Pacific

Frequently asked questions

What family does the Brassy chub belong to?
The Brassy chub (Kyphosus vaigiensis) belongs to the family Kyphosidae (sea chubs).
Is the Brassy chub dangerous?
It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
Is the Brassy chub endemic to the Red Sea?
No — it occurs in the Red Sea but its range extends across the Indo-Pacific.
How big does the Brassy chub get?
It reaches a maximum length of about 50 cm.

Explore the Brassy chub in 3D in the interactive atlas →