Fin's Fish Guide
The Atlantic moonfish (Selene setapinnis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Carangidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Western Atlantic from North to South America, over soft bottoms of coastal water and estuaries; tolerates brackish water.
Description
The Atlantic moonfish is a deep, very thin jack of the family Carangidae reaching about 60 cm. The strongly compressed, almost round body is mirror-silver and has a steep, nearly vertical head profile, giving the fish the look of a shining moon in side view. The species forms schools above soft bottoms of coastal water and estuaries along the east and south coasts of the Americas and tolerates brackish water. Close to the bottom it hunts small fish, shrimps, crabs and worms. Because of its thin body the flesh yield is limited, but it is much landed as bycatch and eaten locally.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atlantic moonfish?
The Atlantic moonfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Deep, very thin, mirror-like silvery small horse mackerel with a steep, almost vertical head profile and a strongly compressed body. Note: in tropical areas 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 Atlantic moonfish live?
The Atlantic moonfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Western Atlantic from North to South America, over soft bottoms of coastal water and estuaries; tolerates brackish water.
How big does the Atlantic moonfish get?
The Atlantic moonfish grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Atlantic moonfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Atlantic moonfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Atlantic moonfish edible?
Yes, the Atlantic moonfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Atlantic moonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atlantic moonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Selene
More from the family Carangidae
Want the complete picture on the Atlantic moonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atlantic moonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.