The Ornate ponyfish (Equulites lineolatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Leiognathidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The ornate ponyfish is a small, deep-bodied and strongly compressed fish of the family Leiognathidae reaching about 15 cm. The glossy silvery body bears fine, wavy dark lines on the back and has a far-protrusible, tube-shaped mouth with which the fish sucks up prey from or just above the bottom. Like other ponyfishes it possesses a light organ with luminous bacteria, used at dusk. The species is native to the Indo-West Pacific and the Red Sea but has entered the eastern Mediterranean as a Lessepsian migrant through the Suez Canal, where it has become numerous in schools. It feeds on small zooplankton and bottom invertebrates. Locally it is landed as bycatch.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ornate ponyfish?
The Ornate ponyfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Ornate ponyfish live?
The Ornate ponyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Ornate ponyfish get?
The Ornate ponyfish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Ornate ponyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Ornate ponyfish is harmless to humans.
Is the Ornate ponyfish edible?
The Ornate ponyfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Equulites
More from the family Leiognathidae
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