Fin's Fish Guide
The Atlantic tripletail (Lobotes surinamensis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Lobotidae that grows up to 110 cm.
Africa: Albania, Algeria, Angola, Antigua Barbuda, Argentina, Australia and others
Description
The Atlantic tripletail is a coastal fish (Lobotidae) from warm parts of the Atlantic Ocean. The species grows to about 1 metre and has a deep, brownish body whose rounded dorsal and anal fins, together with the tail, appear to form a 'triple tail'. Juveniles drift at an angle like a dead leaf among floating weed. As a predator it lives around wrecks, buoys and floating debris and hunts fish and crustaceans. It is a valued food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atlantic tripletail?
The Atlantic tripletail has a flattened, disc-shaped body.
Where does the Atlantic tripletail live?
The Atlantic tripletail lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Africa: Albania, Algeria, Angola, Antigua Barbuda, Argentina, Australia and others
How big does the Atlantic tripletail get?
The Atlantic tripletail grows to a maximum of about 110 cm. On average the species is around 80 cm.
Is the Atlantic tripletail dangerous to humans?
No, the Atlantic tripletail 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 Atlantic tripletail edible?
Yes, the Atlantic tripletail is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Atlantic tripletail?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atlantic tripletail is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lobotes
More from the family Lobotidae
Want the complete picture on the Atlantic tripletail?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atlantic tripletail is one of 12,519 species in the app.