Fin's Fish Guide
The Blue driftfish (Psenes maculatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Nomeidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The spotted driftfish is a pelagic fish of the family Nomeidae from the open, temperate and tropical oceans. The species reaches about 30 cm and has a stocky, bluish body with dark spots. It lives epipelagically to mesopelagically in the open water and is only rarely seen. Juveniles seek shelter among the tentacles of jellyfishes and drifting colonies, where they are relatively safe from predators, while feeding on zooplankton and small invertebrates. Owing to its oceanic, drifting habits little is known about the species and it is of no fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blue driftfish?
The Blue driftfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a spots pattern. Juveniles shelter among the tentacles of jellyfish for protection.
Where does the Blue driftfish live?
The Blue driftfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Open, temperate and tropical oceans worldwide.
How big does the Blue driftfish get?
The Blue driftfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Blue driftfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blue driftfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blue driftfish edible?
The Blue driftfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Psenes
More from the family Nomeidae
Want the complete picture on the Blue driftfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blue driftfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.