---
title: Peony Bigeye (Priacanthus blochii)
scientific_name: Priacanthus blochii
common_name: Peony Bigeye
taxon: Bigeyes
conservation_status: LC - Least Concern
published: 2024-10-27T21:34:31.797Z
updated: 2025-11-25T13:58:09.000Z
tags: Peony Bigeye, Priacanthus blochii, Bigeyes, Red Sea, Marine Life, Diving
url: https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/bigeyes/peony-bigeye
---

# Peony Bigeye (*Priacanthus blochii*)

**Taxon:** Bigeyes (*Priacanthidae*)  
**Conservation Status:** LC - Least Concern  


The Priacanthus blochii, commonly referred to as the Paeony Bullseye, is a marine ray-finned fish within the Priacanthidae family. It is also known by several other names, such as Bloch's Bigeye, Blotched Bigeye, Glass-eye Bigeye, Shortfin Bigeye, Silver Big-eye, and Goggle Eye.

This species is distinguished by its reddish body and rounded tail, with a characteristic black spot at the base of the pelvic fins. It typically attains a length of approximately 40 centimeters (16 inches), and features a lateral line marked by around 15 dark spots. The pelvic and median fins have a dusky red hue, complemented by a black spot situated at the base of the first three pelvic rays. Notably, Priacanthus blochii has the capacity to change its coloration in response to its mood.

Geographically, Priacanthus blochii is found in waters ranging from southern Africa to French Polynesia, with its habitat extending southward to Australia and northward to southern Japan. It is also reported around Easter Island and within the Red Sea.

The species typically inhabits depths of 8 to 250 meters, often occupying caves or residing beneath ledges within lagoons and seaward reefs. It is frequently encountered in silty environments and is generally observed either as a solitary specimen or in small groups.

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*Source: [Red Sea Creatures](https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/bigeyes/peony-bigeye)*
*Updated: November 25, 2025*