---
title: Painted Thicklip (Diagramma punctatum)
scientific_name: Diagramma punctatum
common_name: Painted Thicklip
taxon: Grunts

published: 2024-11-13T09:46:03.105Z
updated: 2025-11-25T13:58:09.000Z
tags: Painted Thicklip, Diagramma punctatum, Grunts, Red Sea, Marine Life, Diving
url: https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/grunts/painted-thicklip
---

# Painted Thicklip (*Diagramma punctatum*)

**Taxon:** Grunts (*Haemulidae*)  


The Painted Thicklip, scientifically named Diagramma punctatum, is a marine fish belonging to the Haemulidae family, commonly referred to as sweetlips. This fish species can grow up to a maximum length of 35 cm (14 inches). First described by Georges Cuvier in 1830, its distinct name, "punctatum," meaning "spotted," reflects the notable spots found on the heads of both adult and subadult fish.

In appearance, the Painted Thicklip sports a grey-brown body adorned with small dark spots along its dorsal side. As they grow, subadult individuals display a striking pattern of brown stripes and spots. This species is also recognized for its unique pairing behavior during the breeding season.

The Painted Thicklip inhabits the western Indian Ocean, with its distribution including regions such as the Red Sea and the island of Socotra.

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