Fin's Fish Guide
The Common ponyfish (Leiognathus equulus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Leiognathidae that grows up to 28 cm.
Description
The common ponyfish is a silvery coastal fish of the ponyfish family (Leiognathidae) of the Indian and western Pacific Oceans. The species grows to about 28 cm and has a deep, strongly compressed body with a strikingly protrusible, tubular mouth with which it sucks up small bottom animals. It lives over soft bottoms in coastal waters and estuaries and sometimes enters fresh water. Around its oesophagus it has a light organ containing luminous bacteria. It forms schools and is fished commercially. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common ponyfish?
The Common ponyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Highly protrusible tube mouth and a light organ with luminous bacteria.
Where does the Common ponyfish live?
The Common ponyfish lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Indian and western Pacific Ocean, from East Africa to Oceania.
How big does the Common ponyfish get?
The Common ponyfish grows to a maximum of about 28 cm.
Is the Common ponyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Common ponyfish 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 Common ponyfish edible?
Yes, the Common ponyfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Leiognathus
More from the family Leiognathidae
Want the complete picture on the Common ponyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common ponyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.