Fin's Fish Guide
The Blotched mackerel (Scomberomorus queenslandicus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Scombridae that grows up to 100 cm.
Western Pacific; inshore waters, bays and estuaries around northern Australia and New Guinea.
Description
The Queensland school mackerel is a Spanish mackerel of the family Scombridae from the western Pacific around northern Australia and New Guinea. The species grows to about one metre and has a streamlined, silvery body with a few rows of grey blotches on the flank. It is a fast schooling fish that seeks inshore waters, bays and estuaries. As a fast predator it hunts small schooling fishes, squid and shrimps. The Queensland school mackerel is a valued sport and food fish. The razor-sharp teeth can cause cuts when handling, so keep fingers away from the mouth.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blotched mackerel?
The Blotched mackerel has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Rows of grey flank blotches; fast, schooling mackerel with razor-sharp teeth.
Where does the Blotched mackerel live?
The Blotched mackerel lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Western Pacific; inshore waters, bays and estuaries around northern Australia and New Guinea.
How big does the Blotched mackerel get?
The Blotched mackerel grows to a maximum of about 100 cm. On average the species is around 80 cm.
Is the Blotched mackerel dangerous to humans?
The Blotched mackerel is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Not venomous, but the razor-sharp teeth can cause cuts when handling; keep fingers away from the mouth of a caught or hooked fish. Clean any wound and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Blotched mackerel edible?
Yes, the Blotched mackerel is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Scomberomorus
More from the family Scombridae
Want the complete picture on the Blotched mackerel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blotched mackerel is one of 12,519 species in the app.