Fin's Fish Guide
The Galapagos porgy (Calamus taurinus) is a saltwater fish of the family Sparidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The Galapagos porgy is a porgy from the eastern Pacific, around the Galapagos Islands and along the coast of Ecuador and Peru. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a deep, silvery body with a steep head profile and strong jaws with molar teeth. With these it crushes shellfish, sea urchins and crustaceans on rocky and sandy reef bottoms. The fish is a valued food fish and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Galapagos porgy?
The Galapagos porgy has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Steep head profile and grinding molars for crushing shellfish
Where does the Galapagos porgy live?
The Galapagos porgy lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Eastern Pacific
How big does the Galapagos porgy get?
The Galapagos porgy grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Galapagos porgy dangerous to humans?
No, the Galapagos porgy 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 Galapagos porgy edible?
Yes, the Galapagos porgy is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Galapagos porgy?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Galapagos porgy is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Calamus
More from the family Sparidae
Want the complete picture on the Galapagos porgy?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Galapagos porgy is one of 12,519 species in the app.