Fin's Fish Guide
The Black-tipped trevally (Caranx melampygus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Carangidae that grows up to 117 cm.
Description
The bluefin trevally is a fast reef predator of the family Carangidae widely distributed across the Indo-Pacific. The species has a streamlined, silvery body with fine blue-black spots on the upper side and brilliant electric-blue fins, and can reach about 117 cm. It is the most common trevally on coral reefs, where it hunts fishes and crustaceans singly or in small schools. The species is a prized sport and food fish, but larger individuals can carry ciguatera toxin. Juveniles occur in shallow coastal waters and rivers.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black-tipped trevally?
The Black-tipped trevally has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a spots pattern. Brilliant electric-blue fins; fast reef predator; larger specimens can contain ciguatera toxin.
Where does the Black-tipped trevally live?
The Black-tipped trevally lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific, from East Africa and the Red Sea to Central America.
How big does the Black-tipped trevally get?
The Black-tipped trevally grows to a maximum of about 117 cm. On average the species is around 60 cm.
Is the Black-tipped trevally dangerous to humans?
The Black-tipped trevally is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Harmless to handle. In some areas there are reports of ciguatera poisoning after eating it, especially larger individuals: in case of symptoms such as tingling, nausea, vomiting or a reversed hot-cold sensation, seek medical help and keep any leftover material.
Is the Black-tipped trevally edible?
Yes, the Black-tipped trevally is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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 Black-tipped trevally?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black-tipped trevally is one of 12,519 species in the app.