Fin's Fish Guide
The Lookdown (Selene vomer) is a brackish-water fish of the family Carangidae that grows up to 48 cm.
North America: Argentina, Bahamas, Bermuda, Brazil, Belize, Canada and others
Description
The lookdown is a strongly compressed jack (Carangidae) from the western Atlantic. The species grows to about 48 cm and has a deep, disc-shaped, mirror-silver body with a steep, downturned 'face' and thread-like front fin rays in young fish. As a predator it swims in schools over sand and mud bottoms of coastal water and hunts small fish and crustaceans. It is a food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lookdown?
The Lookdown has a torpedo-shaped body. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with care or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Lookdown live?
The Lookdown lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Argentina, Bahamas, Bermuda, Brazil, Belize, Canada and others
How big does the Lookdown get?
The Lookdown grows to a maximum of about 48 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Lookdown dangerous to humans?
No, the Lookdown 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 Lookdown edible?
Yes, the Lookdown is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Lookdown?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lookdown is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Selene
More from the family Carangidae
Want the complete picture on the Lookdown?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lookdown is one of 12,519 species in the app.