Javelin Grunter (Dhotar Fish)

Introduction

If you enjoy fish that’s firm, clean-tasting, and versatile, Javelin Grunter — known locally as Dhotar — is an excellent choice. This Arabian Sea favorite has a meaty texture and mild flavor that works beautifully in almost every recipe. The fillets stay intact when cooking, making Dhotar perfect for frying, grilling, BBQ, baking, or desi masala curry.

Dhotar is especially loved for its balanced taste — not too strong, not too light — making it ideal for families and seafood lovers who want something flavorful yet easy to enjoy. Freshly sourced from the Karachi coastline, cleaned hygienically, and delivered chilled, you always get premium, sea-fresh quality at home.

Similar Fish to Try

If you enjoy Dhotar’s mild, firm texture, you may also like Seabream (Safaid Dandia) for a buttery bite, Queen Fish (Saram) for firmer meat, or Croaker (Mushka) for soft, delicate flakes.

Flavor Profile

Javelin Grunter (Dhotar Fish) is a lean, moist fish with a firm texture and a distinctive sweet flavor which makes it versatile for many flavor components from mild to strong. The meat is easy to break on the plate but can get harden if overcooked.

Nomenclature

• English Name: Grunter, Javelin Grunter, Silver Grunter
• Local Name: Dhotar, Kumpo
• Scientific Name: Pomadasys kaakan

Habitat

Javelin Grunter (Dhotar Fish) is a Sea fish that lives in estuaries and coastal waters down to 60 m.

Catching Method

Grunter (Dhotar Fish) is caught using Gillnets, Hook lines, and Bottom Trawls.

Physical Attributes

Javelin Grunter (Dhotar Fish) has Scales on the body. Body depth 2.5–3 in SL, mouth small, maxilla reaching to the eye; jaw teeth villiform (brush-like); 2 pores and a median pit on the chin; dorsal fin with 12 spines and 13–15 soft rays, anal fin with 3 spines and 7–8 soft rays; scales ctenoid, 7 scale rows between lateral line and dorsal-fin origin.

Color

Javelin Grunter (Dhotar Fish) has 12 or more vertical bars comprised of small dark brown spots or irregular blotches, dorsal fin spotted with dark brown to black spots on the lower half of spinous dorsal fin and in 3 rows on rayed dorsal fin, adults uniform golden-green above, silvery below with traces of the vertical bars present only when alive and spots on dorsal fins indistinct or absent, large individuals sometimes with head, ventral parts of the body and lower lobe of caudal fin yellowish.

Size

On average, the Grunter (Dhotar Fish) size range is 500 g to 2 kg per fish. However, other sizes are also occasionally available.

Cutting Preferences

Grunter (Dhotar Fish) is preferred for Slices along with head pieces.

Approx. Cutting Yields

• Whole: 100%
• Gutted: 85%
• Headless and Gutted: 60%
• Slices: 62%
• Boneless: 40%

Why Choose Javelin Grunter (Dhotar) from Anbar Fish?

Firm, Meaty Texture – Perfect for BBQ, frying, and grilling
Mild, Clean Flavor – Great for kids and those who prefer lighter fish
Wonderful Meat Yield – Thick slices with plenty of flesh
Fresh from the Arabian Sea – Sourced daily and handled with care
Hygienic Chilled Delivery – Cleaned and ready to cook

Health Benefits of Dhotar Fish

High in Lean Protein – Helps build muscle and energy
Low Fat & Low Calories – Great for healthy everyday meals
Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Supports heart & brain health
Rich in Selenium & Vitamins – Boosts immunity and cell function
Contains Phosphorus & B12 – Great for bone strength and metabolism

Cooking Inspiration

Crispy Fried Dhotar – Golden crust, juicy inside
BBQ Dhotar Steaks – Smoky, tender, and perfect for gatherings
Grilled Dhotar with Lemon & Herbs – Light, healthy, and aromatic
Dhotar Masala Curry – Rich, spicy, and comforting
Baked Dhotar Fillets – Clean, wholesome, and low-oil

Javelin Grunter (Dhotar Fish) – FAQ