also known as coral grouper or coral trout, is a species of fish belonging to the Serranidae family. They are found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the coral reefs of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Coral hind has a moderately elongated body, which is laterally compressed and slightly curved. They are relatively large fish, with adults typically growing up to 60 cm in length and weighing up to 3 kg.

The overall shape of the coral hind's body is relatively similar to other members of the grouper family. They have a large mouth with sharp teeth and a broad, triangular head. The dorsal fin is continuous and is composed of both spines and soft rays. The anal fin is similar in shape and size to the dorsal fin. Coral hinds are typically colored with a reddish or pinkish hue on the upper body, with darker spots and blotches. The lower body is white, and they have a distinctive black spot on their dorsal fin.

Coral hinds are generally solitary fish, preferring to live in small groups or alone in caves and crevices in the reef. They are primarily nocturnal hunters, feeding on small fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. Coral hinds are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning that they start life as females and can later transform into males as they mature. During spawning season, they migrate to deeper waters, where males and females release their eggs and sperm into the water.

Coral hinds are a popular target for commercial and recreational fishing, leading to significant population declines in some areas. In some regions, they are also targeted by spearfishing, which has contributed to the decline in population. The decline in population has led to the implementation of various conservation measures, including size limits, catch limits, and protected areas. Coral hinds are also a popular species for aquaculture, with farms producing both live fish and fillets for the seafood market.

In summary, coral hind is a moderately large fish species belonging to the grouper family. They have a distinctive appearance, with a reddish-pink hue on the upper body and a black spot on their dorsal fin. They are solitary fish that prefer to live in caves and crevices in the reef, where they hunt for small fish and crustaceans. Due to their popularity in the seafood market, they are at risk of overfishing, leading to population declines in some areas. Conservation measures, including size limits and protected areas, are being implemented to help protect this important species.