Fin's Fish Guide
The King threadfin (Polydactylus macrochir) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Polynemidae that grows up to 170 cm.
Description
The king threadfin is a large threadfin (Polynemidae) from coastal and brackish water of northern Australia and southern New Guinea. The species grows to about 1.7 metres and has a streamlined, silvery body with a blunt snout above an underslung mouth and a bundle of free, thread-like lower pectoral rays with which it feels for prey in turbid water. As a bottom-oriented predator it hunts shrimp and small fish in estuaries and coastal water. It is a valued food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the King threadfin?
The King threadfin has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the King threadfin live?
The King threadfin lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea
How big does the King threadfin get?
The King threadfin grows to a maximum of about 170 cm. On average the species is around 48 cm.
Is the King threadfin dangerous to humans?
No, the King threadfin 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 King threadfin edible?
Yes, the King threadfin is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Polydactylus
More from the family Polynemidae
Want the complete picture on the King threadfin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the King threadfin is one of 12,519 species in the app.