Fin's Fish Guide
The African pompano (Alectis ciliaris) is a saltwater fish of the family Carangidae that grows up to 150 cm.
Widespread in tropical and subtropical seas worldwide, in the east along the coast of West Africa, pelagic in coastal water and near reefs.
Description
The African pompano is a deep, strongly compressed jack of the family Carangidae reaching about 1.5 metres. The silvery body is fairly elongate in adults, but young fish are almost diamond-shaped and have very long, thread-like front rays of the dorsal and anal fins, which trail like waving streamers and probably mislead predators or mimic jellyfish tentacles. The species is widespread in warm seas worldwide, in the east along West Africa, and lives pelagically in coastal water and near reefs. It hunts small fish, crustaceans and squid. The African pompano is a powerful, valued sport and food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African pompano?
The African pompano has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Deep-bodied, strongly flattened jack; juveniles have very long, filamentous front fin rays that serve as waving streamers. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with care or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the African pompano live?
The African pompano lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Widespread in tropical and subtropical seas worldwide, in the east along the coast of West Africa, pelagic in coastal water and near reefs.
How big does the African pompano get?
The African pompano grows to a maximum of about 150 cm. On average the species is around 100 cm.
Is the African pompano dangerous to humans?
No, the African pompano is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the African pompano edible?
Yes, the African pompano is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Alectis
More from the family Carangidae
Want the complete picture on the African pompano?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African pompano is one of 12,519 species in the app.