Fin's Fish Guide
The Bigeye (Epigonus denticulatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Epigonidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The pencil cardinal is a deep-water fish of the deep-water cardinalfish family (Epigonidae) from temperate and tropical seas worldwide. The species grows to about 20 cm and has an elongate, silvery body with large eyes, adapted to the dim light of the depths. Adults live benthically on the continental slope and are caught with bottom trawls. As a bottom and midwater searcher it feeds on small zooplankton, small crustaceans and small fishes. It sometimes forms large schools that are commercially fished. Owing to its deeper habits the species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bigeye?
The Bigeye has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender silvery body with large eyes; benthic deep-water fish that sometimes forms large shoals.
Where does the Bigeye live?
The Bigeye lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Temperate and tropical seas worldwide; continental slope.
How big does the Bigeye get?
The Bigeye grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Bigeye dangerous to humans?
No, the Bigeye is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bigeye edible?
The Bigeye is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Bigeye and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Epigonus
More from the family Epigonidae
Want the complete picture on the Bigeye?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bigeye is one of 12,519 species in the app.