Fin's Fish Guide
The Blacktip leatherskin (Scomberoides lysan) is a brackish-water fish of the family Carangidae that grows up to 110 cm.
Indo-Pacific; clear lagoons and seaward reefs, juveniles in coastal water.
Description
The doublespotted queenfish is a large jack of the family Carangidae from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 110 cm and has an elongate, strongly laterally compressed, silvery body with a double row of dark blotches on the flank. Adults live in clear lagoons and on seaward reefs, juveniles in shallow coastal and brackish water. As a fast predator it hunts small fishes and crustaceans. The first dorsal fin has free, sharp spines linked to venom glands that can give painful puncture wounds; handle a caught specimen with care. The species is a sport and food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blacktip leatherskin?
The Blacktip leatherskin has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Double row of dark flank blotches; separate, sharp dorsal fin spines that can give painful stings.
Where does the Blacktip leatherskin live?
The Blacktip leatherskin lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; clear lagoons and seaward reefs, juveniles in coastal water.
How big does the Blacktip leatherskin get?
The Blacktip leatherskin grows to a maximum of about 110 cm. On average the species is around 60 cm.
Is the Blacktip leatherskin dangerous to humans?
The Blacktip leatherskin can cause injury; handle it with care. The stout, sharp fin spines can cause painful puncture or cut wounds; handle the fish with care. Clean the wound, let it bleed, and seek medical care if pain or infection increases.
Is the Blacktip leatherskin edible?
Yes, the Blacktip leatherskin is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Scomberoides
More from the family Carangidae
Want the complete picture on the Blacktip leatherskin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blacktip leatherskin is one of 12,519 species in the app.