Fin's Fish Guide
The Bigeye (Cookeolus japonicus) is a saltwater fish of the family Priacanthidae that grows up to 69 cm.
Tropical and temperate seas worldwide; hard bottoms down to about 400 m depth.
Description
The longfinned bullseye is a fish of the bigeye family (Priacanthidae) from tropical and temperate seas worldwide. The species grows to about 69 cm and has a deep, deep-red body with very large eyes, characteristic of the nocturnal bigeyes, and elongated pelvic fins. It lives on hard bottoms to about 400 metres. As a nocturnal predator it feeds on small fishes, crustaceans and cephalopods detected with its large eyes in the gloom. The large eyes capture the scarce light of the depths. The longfinned bullseye is a local food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bigeye?
The Bigeye has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Deep red with very large eyes for the twilight; nocturnal deeper reef predator.
Where does the Bigeye live?
The Bigeye lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Tropical and temperate seas worldwide; hard bottoms down to about 400 m depth.
How big does the Bigeye get?
The Bigeye grows to a maximum of about 69 cm. On average the species is around 30 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?
Yes, the Bigeye is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
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.