Fin's Fish Guide
The Golden thread (Nemipterus virgatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Nemipteridae that grows up to 35 cm.
Description
The golden threadfin bream is an important commercial threadfin bream from the western Pacific, ranging from southern Japan to northwestern Australia and the Arafura Sea. The species grows to about 35 cm and has a pink body with yellow longitudinal stripes and a yellow stripe from the upper lip to the eye; the upper caudal lobe extends into a long filament. As a bottom-dweller the fish lives on mud and sand bottoms, usually between 18 and 33 metres depth, and eats crustaceans, fish and squid. The species is a rudimentary hermaphrodite with functional male and remnant female organs. Because of heavy fishing it is listed as Vulnerable (VU) on the IUCN Red List.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Golden thread?
The Golden thread has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly pink-purple and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Long tail filament; yellow longitudinal stripes; important commercial fish
Where does the Golden thread live?
The Golden thread lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Pacific
How big does the Golden thread get?
The Golden thread grows to a maximum of about 35 cm. On average the species is around 23 cm.
Is the Golden thread dangerous to humans?
No, the Golden thread 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 Golden thread edible?
Yes, the Golden thread is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Nemipterus
More from the family Nemipteridae
Want the complete picture on the Golden thread?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Golden thread is one of 12,519 species in the app.