Fin's Fish Guide
The Fusilier (Caesio xanthonota) is a saltwater fish of the family Caesionidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The yellowback fusilier is a fusilier from the Indo-West Pacific, from East Africa and the Maldives to Indonesia. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a streamlined blue body with a broad yellow field running from the head over the whole back into the tail. By day it forms large, fast schools above coral reefs and in open water, where it catches zooplankton from the current. It is a valued food and bait fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fusilier?
The Fusilier has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Broad yellow dorsal field; forms large fast plankton-feeding shoals above the reef
Where does the Fusilier live?
The Fusilier lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Fusilier get?
The Fusilier grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Fusilier dangerous to humans?
No, the Fusilier 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 Fusilier edible?
Yes, the Fusilier is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Caesio
More from the family Caesionidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fusilier is one of 12,519 species in the app.