Fin's Fish Guide
The Bigeye (Pristigenys alta) is a saltwater fish of the family Priacanthidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Western Atlantic, from the northeast coast of the USA to South America.
Description
The short bigeye is a marine fish of the bigeye family (Priacanthidae) from the western Atlantic. The species has a short, deep and strongly compressed body with conspicuously large eyes and a mostly red colour. It grows to about 30 cm and lives on rocky bottoms between roughly 5 and 200 metres, usually solitary and probably territorial. Its large eyes point to a nocturnal lifestyle, hunting small invertebrates and fishes. The species has no commercial value and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bigeye?
The Bigeye has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Very large eyes for a nocturnal way of life on deep rocky bottoms.
Where does the Bigeye live?
The Bigeye lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic, from the northeast coast of the USA to South America.
How big does the Bigeye get?
The Bigeye grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Bigeye dangerous to humans?
No, the Bigeye 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 Bigeye edible?
The Bigeye is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pristigenys
More from the family Priacanthidae
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.