The Golden thread (Nemipterus virgatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Nemipteridae that grows up to 35 cm.
Description
The golden threadfin bream is an important commercial threadfin bream from the western Pacific, ranging from southern Japan to northwestern Australia and the Arafura Sea. The species grows to about 35 cm and has a pink body with yellow longitudinal stripes and a yellow stripe from the upper lip to the eye; the upper caudal lobe extends into a long filament. As a bottom-dweller the fish lives on mud and sand bottoms, usually between 18 and 33 metres depth, and eats crustaceans, fish and squid. The species is a rudimentary hermaphrodite with functional male and remnant female organs. Because of heavy fishing it is listed as Vulnerable (VU) on the IUCN Red List.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Golden thread?
The Golden thread has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly pink-purple and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Golden thread live?
The Golden thread lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Golden thread get?
The Golden thread grows to a maximum of about 35 cm. On average the species is around 23 cm.
Is the Golden thread dangerous to humans?
No, the Golden thread is harmless to humans.
Is the Golden thread edible?
Yes, the Golden thread is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Nemipterus
More from the family Nemipteridae
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