Fin's Fish Guide
The Baillon's dart (Trachinotus baillonii) is a brackish-water fish of the family Carangidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Description
The smallspotted dart is a jack (Carangidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a silvery, laterally compressed body with a few small dark spots along the lateral line and sickle-shaped fins. Adults live near the surface of lagoon and seaward reefs and in the surge zone along sandy beaches. As a fast predator it hunts small fishes and crustaceans. It is a valued sport fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Baillon's dart?
The Baillon's dart has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Small dark spots along the lateral line; fast predator of the reef surface and surf zones.
Where does the Baillon's dart live?
The Baillon's dart lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; surface waters of reefs and surf zones.
How big does the Baillon's dart get?
The Baillon's dart grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Baillon's dart dangerous to humans?
No, the Baillon's dart is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Baillon's dart edible?
Yes, the Baillon's dart 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 Baillon's dart?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Baillon's dart is one of 12,519 species in the app.