Fin's Fish Guide
The Bung (Trachurus novaezelandiae) is a brackish-water fish of the family Carangidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Temperate waters of Australia and New Zealand; coastal waters and estuaries.
Description
The yellowtail horse mackerel is a jack (Carangidae) from the temperate waters of Australia and New Zealand. The species has a slender, streamlined, silvery body with a row of bony scutes along the lateral line. Adults live in coastal waters, including estuaries, usually shallower than 150 m and in water warmer than 13 degrees. It lives in large schools. As a predator it hunts small zooplankton, small crustaceans and small fishes. It is a food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bung?
The Bung has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Row of bony scutes along the lateral line; schooling coastal horse mackerel.
Where does the Bung live?
The Bung lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Temperate waters of Australia and New Zealand; coastal waters and estuaries.
How big does the Bung get?
The Bung grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Bung dangerous to humans?
No, the Bung is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bung edible?
Yes, the Bung is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Trachurus
More from the family Carangidae
Want the complete picture on the Bung?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bung is one of 12,519 species in the app.