Fin's Fish Guide
The Barrier trevally (Caranx ignobilis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Carangidae that grows up to 170 cm.
Description
The giant trevally or GT is a large, powerful jack of the family Carangidae from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 1.7 metres and has a deep, silver-grey body with a steep head profile and a deeply forked tail. Adults live pelagically over sand and rock and inhabit clear lagoons and seaward reefs, usually solitarily. It is a very fast, aggressive apex predator hunting fishes, crustaceans and cephalopods. The GT is a highly prized sport fish. It is eaten locally, but large specimens can contain ciguatera in tropical areas.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barrier trevally?
The Barrier trevally has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Powerful, fast top predator with a steep head profile; large individuals may contain ciguatera.
Where does the Barrier trevally live?
The Barrier trevally lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; lagoons, seaward reefs and open coastal waters.
How big does the Barrier trevally get?
The Barrier trevally grows to a maximum of about 170 cm. On average the species is around 100 cm.
Is the Barrier trevally dangerous to humans?
The Barrier trevally is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The flesh can contain ciguatera in tropical areas; do not eat large reef specimens from risk areas. In case of poisoning (tingling, gastrointestinal symptoms, temperature-reversal sensation), seek medical care.
Is the Barrier trevally edible?
Yes, the Barrier trevally is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Caranx
More from the family Carangidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barrier trevally is one of 12,519 species in the app.