Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded horse mackerel (Gnathanodon speciosus) is a saltwater fish of the family Carangidae that grows up to 120 cm.
Indo-Pacific, on deep lagoon and seaward reefs, where it roots in the sand for prey.
Description
The golden trevally is a large jack (family Carangidae) of the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 120 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed body; juveniles are golden-yellow with black bars, adults silvery. Unlike most jacks it has a toothless, protrusible mouth with which it roots for prey in the sand. Adults live on deep lagoon and seaward reefs and eat crustaceans, burrowing invertebrates and small fishes. The species is a prized sport fish and is farmed in aquaculture. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded horse mackerel?
The Banded horse mackerel has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Toothless, protrusible mouth to root in sand; juveniles golden yellow with black bars and often swim along with large fishes.
Where does the Banded horse mackerel live?
The Banded horse mackerel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific, on deep lagoon and seaward reefs, where it roots in the sand for prey.
How big does the Banded horse mackerel get?
The Banded horse mackerel grows to a maximum of about 120 cm. On average the species is around 75 cm.
Is the Banded horse mackerel dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded horse mackerel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Banded horse mackerel edible?
Yes, the Banded horse mackerel is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Carangidae
Want the complete picture on the Banded horse mackerel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded horse mackerel is one of 12,519 species in the app.