Fin's Fish Guide
The Asian pompano (Trachinotus blochii) is a brackish-water fish of the family Carangidae that grows up to 110 cm.
Description
The snubnose pompano is a jack (Carangidae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 65 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, silvery body with a blunt snout and sickle-shaped fins. Juveniles live along sandy shores and in shallow sandy or muddy bays near river mouths, while adults move in schools to clearer seaward coral and rocky reefs. It feeds on molluscs, crustaceans and small fishes. It is a valued sport and culture fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Asian pompano?
The Asian pompano has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Blunt snout and sickle-shaped fins; valued sport and farmed fish (aquaculture). Note: in tropical regions this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with caution or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Asian pompano live?
The Asian pompano lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; sandy coasts, bays and seaward reefs.
How big does the Asian pompano get?
The Asian pompano grows to a maximum of about 110 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Asian pompano dangerous to humans?
The Asian pompano is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Asian pompano edible?
Yes, the Asian 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 Trachinotus
More from the family Carangidae
Want the complete picture on the Asian pompano?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Asian pompano is one of 12,519 species in the app.