Fin's Fish Guide
The Blue whiptail (Pentapodus emeryii) is a saltwater fish of the family Nemipteridae that grows up to 35 cm.
Asia: Australia, Brunei Darsm, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines and others
Description
The blue whiptail is a threadfin bream (Nemipteridae) from coastal waters of the eastern Indian Ocean, off western Australia. The species grows to about 35 cm and has an elongate, bright-blue body with yellow longitudinal lines and a strongly extended, thread-like upper tail lobe. As a bottom-oriented fish it hovers over sand and reef bottoms and hunts small crustaceans, worms and small fish. It is a food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blue whiptail?
The Blue whiptail has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Blue whiptail live?
The Blue whiptail lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, Brunei Darsm, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines and others
How big does the Blue whiptail get?
The Blue whiptail grows to a maximum of about 35 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Blue whiptail dangerous to humans?
No, the Blue whiptail is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Blue whiptail edible?
The Blue whiptail is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pentapodus
More from the family Nemipteridae
Want the complete picture on the Blue whiptail?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blue whiptail is one of 12,519 species in the app.