Fin's Fish Guide
The Butterfish (Peprilus simillimus) is a saltwater fish of the family Stromateidae that grows up to 28 cm.
Description
The Pacific pompano is a butterfish (Stromateidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species has a deep, strongly laterally compressed, silvery, almost round body without pelvic fins. It is common on sand bottoms of exposed coasts, usually in shallow water near shore, where it often forms small but fairly dense schools. It feeds on small zooplankton and jellyfish. It is a valued food fish. The species 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, almost round, silvery body without pelvic fins; shoaling food fish.
Where does the Butterfish live?
The Butterfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Eastern Pacific; sandy bottoms of exposed coasts.
How big does the Butterfish get?
The Butterfish grows to a maximum of about 28 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
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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.