Fin's Fish Guide
The Barred javelin (Pomadasys kaakan) is a brackish-water fish of the family Haemulidae that grows up to 80 cm.
Description
The javelin grunter is a grunt of the family Haemulidae from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 80 cm and has a silvery body, in juveniles with rows of dark spots. It inhabits turbid coastal waters with sandy to muddy bottoms to about 75 metres and enters estuaries, tolerating low salinity. As a bottom predator it feeds on crustaceans, molluscs, worms and small fishes. Grunts make a grunting sound with the pharyngeal teeth, amplified by the swim bladder. The javelin grunter is a valued food fish and harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barred javelin?
The Barred javelin has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Tolerates low salinity in estuaries; makes grunting sounds with its pharyngeal teeth.
Where does the Barred javelin live?
The Barred javelin lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; turbid coastal waters and estuaries.
How big does the Barred javelin get?
The Barred javelin grows to a maximum of about 80 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Barred javelin dangerous to humans?
No, the Barred javelin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Barred javelin edible?
Yes, the Barred javelin is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pomadasys
More from the family Haemulidae
Want the complete picture on the Barred javelin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barred javelin is one of 12,519 species in the app.