The Japanese rubyfish (Erythrocles schlegelii) is a saltwater fish of the family Emmelichthyidae that grows up to 72 cm.
Asia: Japan, Ryukyu Is., Kenya, Korea (South), Oman, Philippines and others
Description
The Japanese rubyfish is a deepwater perch (Emmelichthyidae) from coastal and slope waters of the western Pacific, off East Asia. The species grows to about 72 cm and has a streamlined, reddish body with a far-protrusible mouth. As a schooling species it hovers above rocky slopes to several hundred metres and filters small zooplankton from the current with its protrusible mouth. It is a food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Japanese rubyfish?
The Japanese rubyfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly red-orange.
Where does the Japanese rubyfish live?
The Japanese rubyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Japan, Ryukyu Is., Kenya, Korea (South), Oman, Philippines and others
How big does the Japanese rubyfish get?
The Japanese rubyfish grows to a maximum of about 72 cm.
Is the Japanese rubyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Japanese rubyfish 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 Japanese rubyfish edible?
Yes, the Japanese rubyfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Erythrocles
More from the family Emmelichthyidae

Want the complete picture on the Japanese rubyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Japanese rubyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.