Fin's Fish Guide
The Butterfish (Peprilus burti) is a saltwater fish of the family Stromateidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Western Atlantic, in the Gulf of Mexico, pelagic over sand and muddy bottoms of the continental shelf.
Description
The Gulf butterfish is a butterfish (family Stromateidae) of the western Atlantic. The species reaches about 25 cm and has a deep, strongly laterally compressed, silvery body with a small mouth. It lives pelagically and forms large, loose schools over sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf, from a few metres to about 275 m deep, but is most abundant between 155 and 225 m. Its diet consists of zooplankton, jellyfish and small invertebrates. The species is of commercial value and is regarded as a tasty food fish. It 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. Strongly flattened, silvery body; forms loose shoals on the continental shelf and is a valued food fish.
Where does the Butterfish live?
The Butterfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Western Atlantic, in the Gulf of Mexico, pelagic over sand and muddy bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Butterfish get?
The Butterfish grows to a maximum of about 25 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Peprilus
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.