Parupeneus porphyreus (Jenkins, 1903)

Body Streaks

Parupeneus porphyreus has pale streaks running along its body.

Body Coloration

Its body can be grayish purple, greenish, or reddish, and it has a notable ability to change color in just seconds.

Distinctive Markings

It has a small white spot, or saddle, above the base of its tail, and has beard-like projections called barbels on the lower portion of its head that resemble a goat's beard.

Early Life Stage Hawaiian Names

In Native Hawaiian naming, kolokolopā or mākolokolopā refers to the tiny early stage of this fish, which is called kūmū overall. ʻAhuluhulu is the name for juvenile kūmū.

Subadult Hawaiian Names

Kūmū aʻe refers to the stage when young kūmū are in the process of transforming into adults. Kūmū is the term used for fully grown adult individuals.

Activity Periods by Age

Adult Parupeneus porphyreus are crepuscular or nocturnal, while young individuals feed during the day.

Adult Behavior

Adults shelter in reef holes during the day, and forage for food over sandy areas at night.

Juvenile Feeding Timing

In contrast, juveniles feed during the day.

Depth Range

Parupeneus porphyreus is typically found in shallow waters.

Geographic Distribution

It occurs around coral reefs in the main and Northwestern Hawaiian Islands.

Habitat and Grouping Behavior

It inhabits lagoons and seaward reefs, and usually gathers in small groups under ledges or near corals during the day.