Fin's Fish Guide
The Indian butterfish (Psenopsis cyanea) is a saltwater fish of the family Centrolophidae that grows up to 24 cm.
Description
The Indian butterfish is a medusafish (Centrolophidae) from coastal and open water of the northern Indian Ocean. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, blue-grey to silvery body with a small mouth. As a pelagic fish it swims in schools in the water column and snaps at jellyfish, salps and small plankton; young often shelter under jellyfish. It is a valued food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Indian butterfish?
The Indian butterfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly blue.
Where does the Indian butterfish live?
The Indian butterfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Asia: India, Somalia, Yemen
How big does the Indian butterfish get?
The Indian butterfish grows to a maximum of about 24 cm. On average the species is around 16 cm.
Is the Indian butterfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Indian butterfish 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 Indian butterfish edible?
Yes, the Indian butterfish is commonly eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Indian butterfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Indian butterfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Psenopsis
More from the family Centrolophidae
Want the complete picture on the Indian butterfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Indian butterfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.