Fin's Fish Guide
The Atlantic cornetfish (Aulostomus strigosus) is a saltwater fish of the family Aulostomidae that grows up to 75 cm.
Eastern Atlantic around the Macaronesian islands and along Northwest Africa, on rocky reefs in shallow water.
Description
The Atlantic cornetfish (trumpetfish) is a very elongate reef fish of the family Aulostomidae reaching about 75 cm. The slender, brownish body with pale longitudinal stripes tapers in front into a long, tubular snout with a small mouth and a small barbel on the chin; a row of separate spinelets stands before the dorsal fin. The species lives on rocky reefs of the eastern Atlantic around the Macaronesian islands, such as the Azores, Madeira and the Canaries, and along north-western Africa. It is a stalking hunter: it often hangs at an angle in the water or hovers just above or behind larger fish, to sneak up on prey unnoticed. With its tubular mouth it suddenly sucks up small fish and shrimps.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atlantic cornetfish?
The Atlantic cornetfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Very elongated fish with a long, tubular snout, a small barbel on the chin and a row of separate small spines in front of the dorsal fin; often hunts by hiding behind larger fishes.
Where does the Atlantic cornetfish live?
The Atlantic cornetfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic around the Macaronesian islands and along Northwest Africa, on rocky reefs in shallow water.
How big does the Atlantic cornetfish get?
The Atlantic cornetfish grows to a maximum of about 75 cm.
Is the Atlantic cornetfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Atlantic cornetfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Atlantic cornetfish edible?
The Atlantic cornetfish is rarely eaten.
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Same genus Aulostomus
More from the family Aulostomidae
Want the complete picture on the Atlantic cornetfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atlantic cornetfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.