Fin's Fish Guide
The Butterfish (Nebris microps) is a brackish-water fish of the family Sciaenidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The smalleye croaker (Nebris microps) is a drum of the family Sciaenidae from coastal waters of eastern South America. The species has a streamlined, silvery body with conspicuously small eyes and reaches about 40 cm. It lives over sandy-mud bottoms in coastal waters and estuaries; juveniles stay in brackish water. The diet consists mainly of shrimps. The species is an important and highly valued food fish marketed fresh and salted. Like other drums it can produce drumming sounds with its swim bladder.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Butterfish?
The Butterfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Strikingly small eyes; highly valued food fish that makes drumming sounds.
Where does the Butterfish live?
The Butterfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Coastal waters and estuaries of eastern South America.
How big does the Butterfish get?
The Butterfish grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Butterfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Butterfish 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 Butterfish edible?
Yes, the Butterfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Butterfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Butterfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Nebris
More from the family Sciaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Butterfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Butterfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.