Fin's Fish Guide
The Bonnetmouth (Emmelichthys nitidus) is a saltwater fish of the family Emmelichthyidae that grows up to 55 cm.
Temperate waters of the southern hemisphere around southern Africa, Australia and South America.
Description
The Cape bonnetmouth is a slender, schooling marine fish of the family Emmelichthyidae from the southern hemisphere. The species grows to about 55 cm and has a streamlined, elongate body with a small, highly protrusible mouth used to filter zooplankton from the water. Young fish live near the surface, often among schools of herring-like fishes, while adults stay at greater depth, between roughly 85 and 500 metres, close to the bottom. The species is fished commercially, mainly as baitfish. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bonnetmouth?
The Bonnetmouth has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Small, highly protrusible mouth for filtering plankton; juveniles swim with herring-like fishes.
Where does the Bonnetmouth live?
The Bonnetmouth lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Temperate waters of the southern hemisphere around southern Africa, Australia and South America.
How big does the Bonnetmouth get?
The Bonnetmouth grows to a maximum of about 55 cm.
Is the Bonnetmouth dangerous to humans?
No, the Bonnetmouth 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 Bonnetmouth edible?
Yes, the Bonnetmouth is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Emmelichthys
More from the family Emmelichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Bonnetmouth?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bonnetmouth is one of 12,519 species in the app.