Fin's Fish Guide
The Moonfish (Mene maculata) is a brackish-water fish of the family Menidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The moonfish is the only species of the family Menidae and occurs in the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a very deep, strongly laterally compressed, nearly crescent-shaped silver body with a sharp, straight belly edge and bluish spots on the upper back. It lives in schools in deeper coastal waters near the bottom, on the continental shelf. As a plankton feeder and small predator it feeds on small zooplankton, small fishes and crustaceans. The moonfish is an important commercial fish eaten fresh and dried. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Moonfish?
The Moonfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Very deep, crescent-shaped silvery body with a sharp ventral edge; the only species in its family.
Where does the Moonfish live?
The Moonfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; deeper coastal waters near the bottom.
How big does the Moonfish get?
The Moonfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Moonfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Moonfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Moonfish edible?
Yes, the Moonfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Want the complete picture on the Moonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Moonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.