Fin's Fish Guide
The Butterfish (Pampus argenteus) is a saltwater fish of the family Stromateidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Description
The silver pomfret is a butterfish (Stromateidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a deep, strongly laterally compressed, shiny silvery body without pelvic fins and with a deeply forked tail. It is a coastal species living in schools over muddy bottoms, often together with other inshore fishes. Adults feed on comb jellies, salps, jellyfishes and other zooplankton. The species is a very important and valued food fish in Asia and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Butterfish?
The Butterfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Deep, glossy body without pelvic fins; feeds on jellyfish; important Asian food fish.
Where does the Butterfish live?
The Butterfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Indo-West Pacific; coastal waters over muddy bottoms.
How big does the Butterfish get?
The Butterfish grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Butterfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Butterfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Butterfish edible?
Yes, the Butterfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Butterfish and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pampus
More from the family Stromateidae
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.