Fin's Fish Guide
The American harvestfish (Peprilus paru) is a brackish-water fish of the family Stromateidae that grows up to 36 cm.
Description
The American harvestfish (Peprilus paru) is a silvery fish of the family Stromateidae (butterfishes) from the western Atlantic. The species has a tall, strongly laterally compressed, almost round body without pelvic fins and reaches about 36 cm. It is a pelagic species that forms large schools in coastal bays and over the continental shelf around islands at moderate depths. It feeds mainly on jellyfishes, ctenophores and zooplankton. Juveniles often shelter under floating weed or near jellyfishes. The species has delicate, valued flesh and is fished locally.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the American harvestfish?
The American harvestfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Almost round, flattened body without pelvic fins; feeds on jellyfish and plankton.
Where does the American harvestfish live?
The American harvestfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Coastal bays and continental shelf of the western Atlantic.
How big does the American harvestfish get?
The American harvestfish grows to a maximum of about 36 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the American harvestfish dangerous to humans?
No, the American harvestfish 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 American harvestfish edible?
The American harvestfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Peprilus
More from the family Stromateidae
Want the complete picture on the American harvestfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the American harvestfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.