Fin's Fish Guide
The Cottonmouth jack (Uraspis helvola) is a saltwater fish of the family Carangidae that grows up to 58 cm.
Asia: Australia, Bahrain, Sri Lanka, Cook Is., Ecuador, Galapagos Is. and others
Description
The cottonmouth jack is a predatory jack (Carangidae) from warm parts of all oceans. The species grows to about 58 cm and has a streamlined, dark silver-grey body and owes its name to the strikingly white mouth and throat cavity. As an open-water predator it hunts small fish and crustaceans along reefs and slopes. It is a food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cottonmouth jack?
The Cottonmouth jack has a torpedo-shaped body.
Where does the Cottonmouth jack live?
The Cottonmouth jack lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, Bahrain, Sri Lanka, Cook Is., Ecuador, Galapagos Is. and others
How big does the Cottonmouth jack get?
The Cottonmouth jack grows to a maximum of about 58 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Cottonmouth jack dangerous to humans?
No, the Cottonmouth jack 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 Cottonmouth jack edible?
Yes, the Cottonmouth jack is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Uraspis
More from the family Carangidae
Want the complete picture on the Cottonmouth jack?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cottonmouth jack is one of 12,519 species in the app.