Fish Identification Photos: Panamic Graysby, Pacific Graysby, Cephalopholis panamensis: The Panamic Graysby is characterized by its rounded caudal fin, nine dorsal rays with deep notches between the spines, nine to ten dark bands on the body, and numerous large blue and orange spots on the side of its head.

The Panamic Graysby is small, growing up to 12 inches in length and 1 pound. The Panamic Graysby is an easy species to identify. Juveniles have many hair-like teeth, which become fewer and more normal as the fish matures. The juvenile Panamic Graysby is sometimes called Ribera Cabrilla by Mexican fishermen.

The Panamic Graysby is found on rocky reefs within the first 225 feet of the water column. It is a voracious predator, hiding in rocks and crevices, and darting out to feed on crustaceans and small fishes.

The Panamic Graysby is a member of the Serrandae or Sea Bass and Grouper Family. The Panamic Graysby is absent from the Pacific side of the Baja California peninsula, but found in abundance throughout the Sea of Cortez, along the coast of mainland Mexico south to Guatemala, and around all oceanic islands.

Panamic Graysby, Pacific Graysby, Cephalopholis panamensis: Caught with Captain Pata in the panga Salome, La Playita, San Jose del Cabo, Baja California Sur, Mexico, in 73-degree water, midmorning in April 2003, in 60 to 100-foot deep water, utilizing a 30-pound test, 40-pound two dropper loop rig, with swivel, 3-ounce bank sinker, and Mustad 92553 hooks, size 2/0, on cut squid 10 miles north of La Playita. Size approximately 10 inches and 1.5 pounds and had no real fight. Fairly common and viewed by locals as an excellent component of soup. Description and photo courtesy John Snow. Panamic Graysby, Pacific Graysby, Cephalopholis panamensis: Photo courtesy John Snow. Panamic Graysby, Pacific Graysby, Cephalopholis panamensis: Caught at Las Arenas, La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico, 2003. Photo by Gene Kira.