Blue sea chub (Kyphosus cinerascens) with and without spots

   Body is blue-gray, brown or black with dark lines separating the rows of scales. Distinctly raised (high) fin rays on the back of the dorsal and anal fins. The mouth is small, opening slightly downwards, below the center of the head. Kyphosus cinerascens has the ability to rapidly change color. When at rest, the fish is usually a uniform ash-gray or silvery color. However, when excited, frightened, or "sleeping," a distinctive pattern appears on its body: large, distinct white or light gray spots, sometimes creating a checkerboard or marbled pattern.