Fin's Fish Guide
The Big jawed jumber (Lactarius lactarius) is a brackish-water fish of the family Lactariidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The false trevally is the only species in the family Lactariidae and occurs in the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a laterally compressed, silvery body with a large, obliquely upturned mouth and a fairly large head. It lives in schools in coastal waters to about 100 m deep. As a fast predator it hunts small fishes, shrimps and other crustaceans. It is a valued but quickly perishable food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Big jawed jumber?
The Big jawed jumber has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. The only species of its family; shoal-forming coastal predator with an obliquely upward-pointing mouth.
Where does the Big jawed jumber live?
The Big jawed jumber lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Indo-West Pacific; coastal waters to ~100 m.
How big does the Big jawed jumber get?
The Big jawed jumber grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Big jawed jumber dangerous to humans?
No, the Big jawed jumber is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Big jawed jumber edible?
Yes, the Big jawed jumber is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Want the complete picture on the Big jawed jumber?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Big jawed jumber is one of 12,519 species in the app.