Fin's Fish Guide
The Fanfish (Pteraclis aesticola) is a saltwater fish of the family Bramidae that grows up to 61 cm.
Description
The Pacific fanfish is a remarkable open-water fish from the tropical and subtropical Pacific. The species grows to about 61 cm and has a silvery, compressed body with enormously tall, fan-shaped dorsal and anal fins that it can raise like sails. As a dweller of the open water it lives from the surface to about 100 metres and feeds on small fish, squid and zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans and has no commercial value. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fanfish?
The Fanfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Enormously tall fan-shaped dorsal and anal fins; open-water swimmer
Where does the Fanfish live?
The Fanfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Pacific Ocean
How big does the Fanfish get?
The Fanfish grows to a maximum of about 61 cm.
Is the Fanfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Fanfish 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 Fanfish edible?
The Fanfish is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Fanfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fanfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pteraclis
More from the family Bramidae
Want the complete picture on the Fanfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fanfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.