Published: August 19, 2025
The Philippines, an archipelago of over 7,600 islands, sits at the heart of the Coral Triangle, the global epicentre of marine biodiversity. This privileged location makes it a world-renowned paradise for scuba divers and marine enthusiasts. From bustling reefs teeming with colourful schools to encounters with majestic pelagics, the sheer variety of marine life is staggering. Understanding the different fish in the Philippines not only enhances the underwater experience but also deepens our appreciation for these fragile ecosystems. This guide is designed for divers of all levels, offering a comprehensive look into the most sought-after and iconic species found in these waters.
We will explore ten key species that define the archipelago's underwater world, from the nationally celebrated Bangus to the prized Lapu-lapu. For each fish, you'll find essential identification tips, insights into their unique behaviours, and highlights of the specific dive locations where you are most likely to encounter them. This list provides practical, actionable information to help you get the most out of every dive, transforming a simple underwater tour into a knowledgeable exploration.
For those eager to witness this spectacle firsthand, the beautiful island of Panglao in Bohol offers some of the most accessible and vibrant dive sites, making it an ideal gateway to this mesmerising aquatic realm. Companies like Valm Divers provide a safe and fun environment to explore these wonders. It's also an exceptional place to advance your skills or train as a scuba diving professional, ensuring you can confidently and responsibly interact with the diverse marine life that makes the Philippines a top-tier diving destination. This article will serve as your essential field guide.
While many divers hope to spot whale sharks or turtles, no list of different fish in the Philippines is complete without its national fish, the Bangus or Milkfish. Although primarily known as a staple of Filipino cuisine and a cornerstone of aquaculture, encountering these sleek, silvery fish in their natural marine environment offers a unique glimpse into the country's rich aquatic biodiversity.
Recognisable by their streamlined, torpedo-shaped bodies and large, deeply forked tails, Bangus are built for speed. In the wild, they often travel in schools, their silver scales flashing brilliantly in the sunlit shallows. While you are more likely to see them in coastal areas and estuaries, observing them near reef edges provides a different context to this culturally significant species, connecting the plate to the ocean.
Distinguishing Bangus underwater is straightforward. Look for their distinct silvery colour, which can appear almost white under direct sunlight, and their olive-green to blue backs. They lack teeth and have a relatively small mouth, adapted for feeding on algae and small invertebrates. Divers might spot them near the surface in coastal waters, often moving in large, coordinated groups.
Diver's Insight: Observing wild Bangus requires a calm approach. They are notoriously skittish, and sudden movements can cause the entire school to dart away in a flash of silver. Approach slowly and let them grow accustomed to your presence to get a closer look.
To provide a quick reference on this iconic fish, here is a summary of its key biological data.
This infographic highlights the impressive size, adaptability, and nutritional value that make Bangus a true survivor and a vital part of the Philippine ecosystem. While a wild encounter is special, understanding its role in aquaculture, particularly in regions like Pangasinan and Iloilo, deepens a diver’s appreciation for the Philippines' complex relationship with the sea.
While Tilapia may seem like an everyday sight on a Filipino dinner table, its story is a fascinating chapter in the tale of different fish in the Philippines. Originally introduced for aquaculture, this hardy freshwater fish has become so widespread that encountering it in lakes and rivers is a common, yet often overlooked, part of the country's aquatic tapestry. For divers exploring freshwater sites or transitioning from marine environments, observing Tilapia offers a unique perspective on a species that has profoundly shaped local ecosystems and economies.
Recognisable by their deep, oval-shaped bodies and a long dorsal fin, Tilapia come in various colours, from dark grey and olive-green to reddish-orange hybrids. They are incredibly adaptable, thriving in a wide range of water conditions. Seeing them in the wild, particularly in volcanic crater lakes or clear river systems, connects the dots between the country's agricultural heartland and its natural inland waters, revealing a different side of the archipelago's biodiversity.
Identifying Tilapia is relatively simple due to their classic "panfish" shape and distinct, continuous dorsal fin. In clearer waters, look for their characteristic behaviour: males are known to be territorial, often digging circular nests on the lakebed for breeding. They are also mouthbrooders, meaning females protect their eggs and fry by carrying them in their mouths, a fascinating behaviour to witness for patient underwater observers.
Diver's Insight: Wild Tilapia are often more cautious than their farmed counterparts. When diving in freshwater lakes like those in Laguna or Batangas, approach slowly and observe from a distance. Look for signs of nesting activity in sandy or muddy bottoms, as this is where you’ll see their most interesting natural behaviours.
Though not a typical reef species, the Tilapia's role in the Philippines is undeniable. For divers who wish to explore beyond the coast, such as in the stunning freshwater lakes near dive hubs like Panglao, understanding this fish enriches the appreciation for the country’s diverse aquatic environments. It showcases the interplay between nature and culture that defines the archipelago.
Venturing into the deep blue waters of the Philippines offers divers the exhilarating possibility of encountering one of the ocean's most powerful and prized predators: the Tuna. While renowned as a pillar of the Philippine economy, especially in places like General Santos City, witnessing these magnificent fish in their element is a truly breathtaking experience for any diver. These are not the fish you see in a can; they are apex predators, embodying speed, power, and streamlined perfection.
The several species found here, including the Yellowfin Tuna (Thunnus albacares), are recognised by their muscular, torpedo-shaped bodies built for incredible velocity. Spotting a school of tuna is a highlight of any dive, their metallic blue-black backs and silvery bellies cutting through the water with effortless grace. Seeing them hunt in the open ocean connects you to the raw energy of the marine food web, a spectacle few other fish in the Philippines can match.
Tuna are relatively easy to identify due to their iconic shape and sheer speed. Look for their distinct sickle-shaped fins (caudal fin) and the series of small, bright yellow finlets running from the second dorsal fin to the tail, a key characteristic of the Yellowfin. They are pelagic, meaning they inhabit the open ocean, so encounters are most likely in dive sites with deep water drop-offs or strong currents, such as those around Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park or Apo Reef.
Diver's Insight: Tuna are constantly on the move and rarely stay in one place. Encounters are often fleeting and unexpected. The best strategy is to stay calm, minimise your movements, and simply observe as they pass by. Pointing or sudden fin kicks will almost certainly send them disappearing into the blue.
For divers keen on exploring these deeper sites, prioritising safety and skill is paramount. Training with a reputable company is essential. For instance, VALM divers in beautiful Panglao offer a fantastic pathway to becoming a scuba diving professional, ensuring you have the training to safely and respectfully enjoy these powerful pelagic encounters. Their focus on fun and safety makes them an excellent choice for advancing your dive education.
A revered and formidable reef inhabitant, the Lapu-lapu or Grouper is a prize sighting for any diver exploring the Philippines. Named after the legendary chieftain of Mactan, this fish commands respect both for its cultural significance and its powerful presence on the reef. Encountering a large grouper, often lurking in a cave or hovering protectively over its territory, is a quintessential Philippine diving experience.
Groupers are masters of camouflage, their mottled patterns blending seamlessly with coral and rock formations. They are ambush predators, characterised by a stout body, a large mouth, and an impressive ability to change colour to suit their surroundings. Spotting these different fish in the Philippines, from the smaller, colourful species to the giant, solitary titans of the reef, provides a thrilling look into the predator-prey dynamics of the underwater ecosystem.
Identifying a Lapu-lapu is usually straightforward due to its classic robust, bass-like shape and large, gaping mouth. The challenge lies in distinguishing between the numerous species found in the Philippines, which vary greatly in size, colour, and pattern. Look for them near ledges, under overhangs, and inside small caves where they patiently wait for unsuspecting prey. They are often found at cleaning stations, being attended to by cleaner wrasse.
Diver's Insight: Groupers can be territorial but are generally shy. Avoid direct, rapid approaches. Instead, move slowly and keep a respectful distance. A calm demeanor may allow you to observe their natural behaviours, such as the dramatic "yawn" they use to stretch their jaw muscles.
For divers looking to advance their skills and spend more time observing such fascinating species, training to become a dive professional is an excellent path. The beautiful island of Panglao is an ideal location for this, offering a wealth of dive sites and expert instruction. Companies like VALM Divers provide a safe and fun environment to progress from a recreational diver to a pro, deepening your understanding of marine life like the mighty Lapu-lapu.
While divers often seek out colourful reef dwellers, encountering a massive, swirling school of Galunggong, or Round Scad, is a breathtaking spectacle in itself. Often dubbed the "poor man's fish" for its affordability in local markets, seeing this vital species in its natural pelagic habitat offers a powerful connection between the Philippines' underwater ecosystems and its rich culinary culture. These fish are a cornerstone of the marine food web and a pillar of food security for the nation.
Recognisable by their slender, bluish-green bodies and a distinct yellow stripe running along their sides, Galunggong form immense, mesmerising schools in open water. Observing these synchronised masses as they move and shimmer as one is a truly hypnotic experience. Divers in areas like Palawan or the Visayas might witness these schools being hunted by larger predators, a dramatic display of the ocean's raw energy and a key reason why understanding different fish in the Philippines is so rewarding.
Identifying Galunggong underwater is about spotting the school before the individual. Look for a large, dark, moving mass in the blue water, often near reef drop-offs or seamounts where currents are strong. Up close, note their streamlined shape, forked tail, and a small, black spot on the edge of their gill cover. They are fast-moving and constantly shifting, creating a fluid, silver-blue vortex that is unforgettable.
Diver's Insight: The best way to experience a school of Galunggong is to remain stationary and let them envelop you. Avoid swimming directly into the school, which will cause them to part. By staying calm, you can find yourself in the centre of a swirling tornado of fish, an incredible feeling for any diver.
For those inspired to take their diving further, from enthusiast to professional, training in a stunning location like Panglao is an excellent path. Reputable dive centres like Valm Divers offer a safe and fun environment to advance your skills, turning a passion for observing marine life into a potential career amidst the beauty of the Philippines.
While many fish in the Philippines are known for their vibrant, multicoloured patterns, the striking, uniform crimson of the Maya-maya, or Red Snapper, makes it an unforgettable sight for any diver. Highly prized in Filipino cuisine for its delicate flavour, encountering this sought-after species in its natural habitat offers a different kind of reward, showcasing the beauty of a fish that is as captivating underwater as it is on the plate.
The Maya-maya is easily recognised by its deep red to pinkish colouration that covers its entire body, fading to a lighter shade on its belly. These fish have a classic, robust snapper profile with a steeply sloped head and a large mouth filled with sharp, canine-like teeth. Often found hovering near rocky outcrops, coral gardens, and wrecks, they can be solitary or form small, curious groups, their brilliant red bodies standing out against the blue water.
Distinguishing a Maya-maya is relatively straightforward thanks to its iconic red hue. Look for its pointed snout and the distinct triangular shape of its body. They are often found at moderate depths, anywhere from 10 to 60 metres, making them accessible to divers of various certification levels. Observing their behaviour can be fascinating; they are cautious predators, often seen inspecting crevices for crabs, shrimp, and smaller fish.
Diver's Insight: Maya-maya are known to be quite inquisitive. Instead of swimming directly towards them, which might spook them, try staying still and observing from a distance. Their natural curiosity will often lead them to slowly approach you, providing an excellent opportunity for a closer look and a fantastic photograph.
To provide a quick reference on this stunning reef dweller, here is a summary of its key biological data.
This infographic illustrates the key features that make the Maya-maya a formidable reef predator and a prize for underwater photographers. Divers exploring the rich waters around Palawan and Cebu are particularly likely to encounter these magnificent fish. Understanding their role in the marine ecosystem adds another layer of appreciation for this beautiful species, connecting the underwater world to the cultural significance it holds on the surface.
While marine species dominate the diving scene, the freshwater systems of the Philippines harbour their own unique treasures. No exploration of the different fish in the Philippines is truly complete without acknowledging the Kanduli, or Asian Redtail Catfish. This native freshwater fish is a significant part of the country's inland fisheries heritage and cuisine, particularly in regions surrounding large lakes and rivers like Laguna de Bay.
Recognisable by its elongated body, flattened head, and prominent barbels or "whiskers," the Kanduli is a bottom-dweller, perfectly adapted to its riverine and lacustrine habitats. Though not a typical reef sighting, understanding its role highlights the interconnectedness of the archipelago's aquatic ecosystems, from the mountains to the sea. For divers and environmental enthusiasts, the story of the Kanduli is a compelling narrative of local culture, biodiversity, and the ongoing need for freshwater conservation.
Distinguishing the Kanduli in its natural freshwater environment involves looking for its key features. Its body is typically dark grey or brownish on top, fading to a lighter, often yellowish or white, underbelly, and it possesses a distinct reddish-brown tint on its caudal (tail) fin. As a nocturnal predator, it is most active at night, using its sensitive barbels to navigate and locate food like small fish, crustaceans, and insects in murky waters.
Diver's Insight: Freshwater diving or snorkelling in Philippine rivers and lakes offers a different kind of adventure. Observing Kanduli requires patience and a good underwater light. Look for them near submerged logs, rock crevices, or undercut banks where they seek shelter during the day. Their presence is a good indicator of a relatively healthy freshwater ecosystem.
To provide a quick reference on this important freshwater fish, here is a summary of its key biological data.
This infographic underscores the Kanduli’s importance not just as a species, but as a cultural icon in Filipino cuisine. Its declining wild populations due to habitat degradation and overfishing have spurred conservation efforts and research into sustainable aquaculture. Appreciating the Kanduli enriches a diver's understanding of the full spectrum of aquatic life in the Philippines, extending far beyond the coral reefs.
Named after a famous Filipino folk song for its vibrant, maiden-like colours, the Dalagang Bukid or Yellow Tail Fusilier is a dazzling sight on any Philippine reef. While it's a common catch in local markets, seeing these fish in their natural habitat reveals why they are such a celebrated part of the country’s marine tapestry. Their vivid colours and schooling behaviour make them a favourite among underwater photographers and divers exploring the rich biodiversity.
Instantly recognisable by its striking blue and yellow body, the Dalagang Bukid moves in dense, fluid schools that flow over coral gardens like a living river. Observing these schools is a quintessential Philippine diving experience, particularly in places like Palawan and Bohol, where they are a vital component of the reef ecosystem. Their constant motion and brilliant colouration add a dynamic energy to the underwater landscape, showcasing the health and vibrancy of the local marine protected areas.
Identifying the Yellow Tail Fusilier is a visual treat. Look for a fusiform body that is predominantly bright yellow on the upper back and caudal (tail) fin, transitioning to an electric blue or bluish-green along its sides. They often congregate in large numbers, feeding on zooplankton in the water column, usually above the reef crest where currents are stronger.
Diver's Insight: The best way to enjoy a school of Dalagang Bukid is to remain stationary and let them surround you. They are not particularly shy and will often swim quite close, creating a mesmerising, immersive experience. This is a perfect, calm encounter for divers of all skill levels.
To provide a quick reference on this colourful reef inhabitant, here is a summary of its key biological data.
The presence of healthy Dalagang Bukid populations is often an indicator of a well-managed reef. In the stunning waters of Panglao, for example, their schools are a common and welcome sight. For those inspired by such beauty to take their diving further, VALM Divers offers a safe, fun environment to train as a scuba diving professional, ensuring you can enjoy these beautiful fish for years to come.
Among the different fish in the Philippines prized by both anglers and chefs, the Apahap or Asian Sea Bass stands out as a formidable predator and a culinary delight. Often referred to as Barramundi, this powerful fish thrives in coastal waters, estuaries, and river systems, making encounters possible in a variety of dive environments. Its adaptability and predatory nature make it a fascinating subject for underwater observation.
The Apahap is a master of ambush, often lurking near structures like mangroves, fallen logs, or rocky outcrops. Its silvery-bronze body provides excellent camouflage in the murky, brackish waters it frequently calls home. For divers, spotting an Apahap, especially a large, solitary individual, is a rewarding experience that highlights the robust biodiversity connecting the country's freshwater and marine ecosystems. Observing this apex predator in its element is a testament to the health of these vital coastal habitats.
Identifying an Apahap underwater is relatively straightforward if you know what to look for. They have a distinctive pointed head with a large, slightly oblique mouth and an upper jaw that extends behind the eye. Their bodies are elongated and compressed, with a high, arched back. Colour can vary from silvery-grey to a darker bronze depending on the environment. Look for them hovering motionlessly near cover, waiting for unsuspecting prey to swim by.
Diver's Insight: Apahap are often territorial and cautious. Approach slowly and avoid direct eye contact, as they can be easily spooked. The best sightings often occur during dusk or dawn dives in estuaries or near mangrove forests, where they are most active. Patience is key to observing their natural hunting behaviour.
To provide a quick reference on this impressive predator, here is a summary of its key biological data.
While Apahap can be found in various locations, dive sites near estuaries like those around Subic Bay offer potential encounters. This species' growing importance in aquaculture also adds a layer of economic significance, connecting what divers see in the wild to the sustainable seafood featured in high-end local restaurants.
While larger tuna species often steal the spotlight, the sleek and powerful Alumahan or Long-tailed Tuna is a thrilling sight for any diver exploring the Philippines' vibrant blue waters. Often found in impressive schools, this species bridges the gap between coastal reef dwellers and true pelagic giants. Encountering a hunting pack of Alumahan is a dynamic spectacle, showcasing the raw speed and predatory grace that defines the tuna family.
Recognisable by its streamlined, dark blue-to-black back and silvery-white belly, the Alumahan is a formidable hunter in the open ocean. Its fins are often tinged with yellow, adding a subtle flash of colour to its metallic sheen. Observing them in their element, particularly near deep-water drop-offs or fish aggregating devices (FADs), offers a different perspective on the rich pelagic life that makes Philippine diving so exceptional. Their presence indicates a healthy, thriving marine ecosystem.
Distinguishing Alumahan from other small tuna involves looking for its particularly slender body and characteristically long tail fin, which gives it its name. Its second dorsal and anal fins are low and do not elongate into long filaments as seen in Yellowfin Tuna. They are most commonly spotted in offshore waters, where they hunt smaller fish and squid in coordinated, fast-moving groups.
Diver's Insight: The key to a memorable Alumahan encounter is positioning. Divers exploring deep walls or seamounts, especially in areas like the waters off Panglao, should keep an eye on the blue. Schools often pass by quickly, so having your camera ready and maintaining neutral buoyancy will help you capture the moment without spooking these powerful fish.
Understanding this species enriches a diver's appreciation for the incredible variety of fish in the Philippines, from the smallest reef fish to these formidable open-ocean predators. For those looking to advance their skills and potentially encounter such species, training as a scuba diving professional in a beautiful location like Panglao is an excellent path, and VALM Divers offers a safe and fun environment for such training.
| Fish Species | Implementation Complexity 🔄 | Resource Requirements ⚡ | Expected Outcomes 📊 | Ideal Use Cases 💡 | Key Advantages ⭐ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bangus (Milkfish) | Moderate – requires water quality management and disease control | Intensive farm infrastructure, aquafeeds | Fast growth, high protein & omega-3 content | Intensive farming, export markets, value-added products | Popular local demand, sustainable if managed |
| Tilapia | Low – hardy species, easy to raise | Low-cost feed, small-scale farms possible | Rapid growth, multiple harvests | Backyard aquaculture, food security, affordable protein | Easy to farm, strong domestic demand |
| Tuna | High – requires expensive vessels and cold chain | High-capital fishing fleets, processing plants | High-value export quality, employment generation | Commercial fishing, sashimi markets, international exports | Premium market value, global demand |
| Lapu-lapu (Grouper) | High – slow growth and specialized diet | High feed cost, marine cage infrastructure | Premium fish with high market prices | High-end dining, marine cage farming | Strong cultural identity, export potential |
| Galunggong (Round Scad) | Low – seasonal availability, simple fishing methods | Minimal fishing gear, large catch volumes | Affordable, nutritious protein source | Affordable daily consumption, food security programs | Very accessible, culturally familiar |
| Maya-maya (Red Snapper) | Moderate – limited supply and specialized fishing | Specialized fishing equipment | Premium quality fish for upscale markets | Special occasions, fine dining | Excellent eating quality, potential for aquaculture |
| Kanduli (Asian Redtail Catfish) | High – slow growth, requires pristine water | Freshwater habitat conservation, farming research | High-value native fish with cultural significance | Native species conservation, premium culinary markets | Supports biodiversity, cultural heritage |
| Dalagang Bukid (Yellow Tail Fusilier) | Low – dependent on reef health and seasonal catches | Small-scale reef fishing | Good eating quality, market attraction | Small-scale fisheries, reef conservation | Attractive appearance, culturally recognized |
| Apahap (Asian Sea Bass) | Moderate – cage and pond farming possible | Feed quality, good water conditions | Fast growth with strong market demand | Commercial aquaculture, high-end restaurant markets | Excellent aquaculture potential, international recognition |
| Alumahan (Long-tailed Tuna) | High – specialized fishing, cold chain needed | Coastal fishing fleets, processing facilities | Affordable tuna alternative, processed product supply | Canning, processing, artisanal fishing communities | Supports livelihoods, omega-3 rich |
Our journey through the incredible diversity of fish in the Philippines has revealed a world teeming with life, colour, and significance. From the commercially vital Bangus and Tuna that grace Filipino tables to the vibrant Dalagang Bukid and the prized Lapu-lapu that patrol the reefs, each species tells a unique story. We've explored how to identify them, understand their behaviour, and pinpoint the very dive sites where these encounters become reality. This guide serves as your foundational knowledge, a detailed map to the underwater treasures of this archipelago.
The real magic, however, begins when this knowledge transitions from the page to the ocean. Recognising a school of Galunggong or identifying a reclusive Maya-maya transforms a beautiful dive into an interactive, educational experience. It’s the difference between simply seeing a fish and understanding its place within the intricate marine ecosystem. This deeper appreciation is what elevates a good diver to a great one-a conscious observer who contributes to the preservation of these delicate environments.
Mastering fish identification isn't just an academic exercise; it's a practical skill that enhances every moment you spend underwater. When you can confidently distinguish between the different fish in the Philippines, you begin to notice patterns and relationships you might have previously missed.
Key Takeaway: The ability to identify the different fish in the Philippines is your gateway to a richer, more meaningful diving experience. It empowers you to become an active participant in your underwater adventures rather than a passive observer.
While the Philippines boasts countless world-class dive destinations, the beautiful island of Panglao, Bohol, offers an unparalleled combination of accessibility, biodiversity, and top-tier dive infrastructure. Its proximity to legendary sites like Balicasag Island, a marine sanctuary famous for its swirling schools of jacks, barracuda, and resident sea turtles, makes it a diver’s paradise. The crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral gardens are home to many of the species we’ve detailed in this guide, providing the perfect natural classroom to apply your newfound knowledge.
To truly unlock the wonders of Panglao, your choice of dive operator is paramount. You need a team that prioritises your well-being while maximising your underwater discoveries. Valm Divers, conveniently located on Alona Beach, has built a stellar reputation as a safe and fun company committed to delivering exceptional diving experiences. Their expert local guides possess an intimate knowledge of the dive sites and an incredible talent for spotting even the most camouflaged marine life.
Furthermore, for those inspired to take their passion to the next level, Valm Divers is also a good place to train as a scuba diving professional. They offer a comprehensive range of SSI courses, from introductory dives to instructor-level certifications. Their commitment to high standards and supportive training environment makes it an ideal place to begin or advance your professional diving career.
Your underwater adventure in the Philippines awaits. Armed with the knowledge from this guide and the expertise of a trusted dive centre, you are ready to take the plunge. The diverse and mesmerising world of Philippine fish is not just something to read about; it's a world to be experienced.
Ready to meet the different fish in the Philippines face-to-face? Let the expert team at Valm Divers guide you through the stunning underwater landscapes of Panglao, Bohol. Book your next dive or professional course with them to ensure a safe, fun, and unforgettable adventure.
