Fin's Fish Guide
The African spadefish (Tripterodon orbis) is a saltwater fish of the family Ephippidae that grows up to 75 cm.
Africa: India, Kenya, Mozambique, Oman, Somalia, South Africa and others
Description
The African spadefish is a spadefish (Ephippidae) from the western Indian Ocean, off East Africa. The species grows to about 75 cm and has a deep, strongly compressed, silver-grey body with a few dark crossbars that fade in adults. As a bottom-oriented fish it lives around rocky reefs and wrecks and eats invertebrates such as sponges, molluscs and crustaceans. It is a food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African spadefish?
The African spadefish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the African spadefish live?
The African spadefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Africa: India, Kenya, Mozambique, Oman, Somalia, South Africa and others
How big does the African spadefish get?
The African spadefish grows to a maximum of about 75 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the African spadefish dangerous to humans?
No, the African spadefish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the African spadefish edible?
Yes, the African spadefish is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the African spadefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African spadefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Ephippidae
Want the complete picture on the African spadefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African spadefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.