1. The scientific name
    This is the key to most reliable information, as this is the only unambiguous way to name a given species. Sometimes however, due to modifications in international classification, scientific names can change but using an old name is the best way to find out about the new name. Be very careful with the spelling.
  2. Names (English, Français, Bahasa Indonesia)
    While some names are used worldwide (a dogtooth tuna is everywhere a dogtooth tuna), it’s far from being true for all fish names; even using the same language such as English, differences are not uncommon and sometimes misleading. In Australia for example, the Napoleon wrasse is called Maori Wrasse which can be confusing as there is a Maori Perch. In this guide, the name in English is mostly the American denomination. The name in French it also subject to large variations; New Caledonia has its own very specific denominations that differ from those of other French speaking territories of the Indo-Pacific. Finally, in Indonesia, each island can have its vernacular names so imagine the mess… The best way to communicate about a given species is to show the picture.
  3. Photographs
    Almost all underwater images have been taken in apnea and natural lighting. Default credit is Angelos Germidis, unless indicated otherwise.
  4. Key identification information
    • Frequency: F = Frequent, O = Occasional, R = Rare, E = Exceptional
    • Habitat: Reef, Sand, Pelagic
    • Seasonality: Months during which the probability of encounter is highest
    • Usual weights: Current weights observed, the minimum being the reasonable shooting threshold
  5. Text
    Further information is given on where an when this species can be encountered, and important tips are given on how to fish it, the right approach and the right gear.
  6. Vulnerability Index (IUCN index rating)

    • NE = Non-Evaluated
    • DD = Insufficient Data
    • LC = Least concern
    • NT = Near-Threatened
    • VU = Vulnerable
    • EN = Endangered
  7. Edibility rating
    • Raw taste (scale of 1-4 stars)
      Example: level 3 out of 4
    • Cooked taste (Scale of 1-4 stars)
      Example: Level 2 out of 4
  8. Records
    Three record weights, in kg, are displayed:

    • IGFA All tackle record, usually the biggest of the three, according to the rules described in: https://igfa.org/world-records
    • IUSA spearfishing Record, caught in apnea according to the rules described in http://www.iusarecords.com/
    • Teak Sea Record, caught in apnea according to the rules described in www.teak-sea.com
  9. Overall rating index
    • It’s a good catch and a target for the underwater hunter.
    • The taste of this fish is not good enough to justify landing it.
    • The taste can be good but this is an iconic or threatened species.
    • Very wrong to target this species, you might be in trouble if you do so.