Fin's Fish Guide
The Butterfish (Stromateus brasiliensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Stromateidae that grows up to 38 cm.
Description
The Southwest Atlantic butterfish is a butterfish from the southwest Atlantic, off the coast of South America. The species grows to about 38 cm and has a deep, oval, strongly compressed, silvery body without pelvic fins. It schools over sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf, between about 20 and 135 metres, and feeds on zooplankton, small jellyfish and crustaceans. It is a valued commercial food fish. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
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. Deep oval silvery body without pelvic fins; schooling plankton and jellyfish feeder
Where does the Butterfish live?
The Butterfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southwest Atlantic
How big does the Butterfish get?
The Butterfish grows to a maximum of about 38 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
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Stromateus
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.