Fin's Fish Guide
The Leerfish (Lichia amia) is a saltwater fish of the family Carangidae that grows up to 200 cm.
Eastern Atlantic from the Bay of Biscay to South Africa and the Mediterranean Sea; enters brackish estuaries.
Description
The leerfish or garrick is a large, fast jack of the family Carangidae reaching about 2 metres, the largest jack of the region. The streamlined, laterally compressed body is silvery-grey with a bluish back and has a strongly waved lateral line and leathery, sparsely scaled skin, from which the species takes its name. The species lives in the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean, often in the surf and near reefs, and also enters brackish estuaries. In small groups it hunts small schooling fish such as mullet, sardine and anchovy at high speed. The leerfish is a sought-after, hard-fighting sport fish and a valued food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Leerfish?
The Leerfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Large, fast carangid with a strongly undulating lateral line and a leathery, nearly scaleless skin; the largest jack in the region.
Where does the Leerfish live?
The Leerfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Eastern Atlantic from the Bay of Biscay to South Africa and the Mediterranean Sea; enters brackish estuaries.
How big does the Leerfish get?
The Leerfish grows to a maximum of about 200 cm. On average the species is around 100 cm.
Is the Leerfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Leerfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Leerfish edible?
Yes, the Leerfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Leerfish and live in the same waters.
Want the complete picture on the Leerfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Leerfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Carangidae
Want the complete picture on the Leerfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Leerfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.