Fin's Fish Guide
The Bengal escolar (Rexea bengalensis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Gempylidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Asia: Australia, Sri Lanka, Comoros, India, Indonesia, Japan and others
Description
The Bengal escolar is a snake mackerel (Gempylidae) from deeper coastal waters of the northern Indian Ocean, off South Asia. The species grows to about 22 cm and has an elongate, laterally compressed, silvery body with a large mouth full of sharp teeth. As a fast predator it hunts small fish and squid on the continental margin. It is a local food fish, though its oily flesh can cause digestive upset in some people. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bengal escolar?
The Bengal escolar has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Bengal escolar live?
The Bengal escolar lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Asia: Australia, Sri Lanka, Comoros, India, Indonesia, Japan and others
How big does the Bengal escolar get?
The Bengal escolar grows to a maximum of about 22 cm.
Is the Bengal escolar dangerous to humans?
No, the Bengal escolar 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 Bengal escolar edible?
The Bengal escolar is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Rexea
More from the family Gempylidae
Want the complete picture on the Bengal escolar?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bengal escolar is one of 12,519 species in the app.