Fin's Fish Guide
The Bigeye trevally (Caranx sexfasciatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Carangidae that grows up to 120 cm.
Indian and Pacific Ocean, near reefs, in coastal water and estuaries; juveniles move far into brackish and fresh water.
Description
The bigeye trevally is a large, powerful jack of the family Carangidae reaching about 1.2 metres. The deep, silvery body has notably large eyes, often a white tip on the second dorsal fin and a row of bony scutes along the tail base. The species lives around reefs, in coastal water and estuaries of the Indian and Pacific Oceans; juveniles range far into brackish and fresh water. By day it sometimes forms large, slowly circling schools, but mainly at dusk it hunts actively for fish, shrimp and other crustaceans. Because of its size, power and fight it is a prized sport fish and with its flesh an important market and coastal species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bigeye trevally?
The Bigeye trevally has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Large, powerful jack with strikingly large eyes, a white tip on the dorsal fin and bony scutes along the caudal peduncle.
Where does the Bigeye trevally live?
The Bigeye trevally lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Indian and Pacific Ocean, near reefs, in coastal water and estuaries; juveniles move far into brackish and fresh water.
How big does the Bigeye trevally get?
The Bigeye trevally grows to a maximum of about 120 cm. On average the species is around 60 cm.
Is the Bigeye trevally dangerous to humans?
No, the Bigeye trevally is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bigeye trevally edible?
Yes, the Bigeye trevally is commonly eaten.
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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
Want the complete picture on the Bigeye trevally?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bigeye trevally is one of 12,519 species in the app.