Fin's Fish Guide
The Horse-eye jack (Caranx latus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Carangidae that grows up to 101 cm.
Atlantic Ocean on both sides, mainly the west, pelagic in coastal waters; young fish enter estuaries and rivers, tolerates brackish water.
Description
The horse-eye jack is a powerful, silvery jack of the family Carangidae reaching about 1 metre. The streamlined, laterally compressed body has conspicuously large eyes - hence the name - a high, steep forehead and a row of stout bony scutes along the tail base, characteristic of the family. The species lives pelagically in coastal water on both sides of the Atlantic, especially the west; young fish enter estuaries and rivers and tolerate brackish water. In fast schools it hunts schooling fish, shrimps and crustaceans. It is a prized, hard-fighting sport fish; its flesh can carry ciguatera in some areas, which calls for caution.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Horse-eye jack?
The Horse-eye jack has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Powerful, silvery scad with strikingly large eyes, a high forehead and a row of bony scutes along the caudal peduncle. Note: in tropical regions this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large individuals of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with caution or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Horse-eye jack live?
The Horse-eye jack lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Atlantic Ocean on both sides, mainly the west, pelagic in coastal waters; young fish enter estuaries and rivers, tolerates brackish water.
How big does the Horse-eye jack get?
The Horse-eye jack grows to a maximum of about 101 cm. On average the species is around 60 cm.
Is the Horse-eye jack dangerous to humans?
No, the Horse-eye jack is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Horse-eye jack edible?
Yes, the Horse-eye jack is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Caranx
More from the family Carangidae
Want the complete picture on the Horse-eye jack?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Horse-eye jack is one of 12,519 species in the app.