Fin's Fish Guide
The Pacific harvestfish (Peprilus medius) is a saltwater fish of the family Stromateidae that grows up to 32 cm.
Description
The Pacific harvestfish is a butterfish from the eastern Pacific, ranging from Mexico to Peru and the Galapagos. The species grows to about 32 cm and has a deep, strongly compressed, silvery body with a small mouth; pelvic fins are absent, characteristic of the genus. It lives pelagically in coastal water, from just below the surface to over the continental shelf, and feeds on jellyfish and zooplankton. It is a valued food fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pacific harvestfish?
The Pacific harvestfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Deep compressed body without pelvic fins; feeds on jellyfish and plankton
Where does the Pacific harvestfish live?
The Pacific harvestfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Eastern Pacific
How big does the Pacific harvestfish get?
The Pacific harvestfish grows to a maximum of about 32 cm.
Is the Pacific harvestfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Pacific harvestfish 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 Pacific harvestfish edible?
Yes, the Pacific harvestfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Peprilus
More from the family Stromateidae
Want the complete picture on the Pacific harvestfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pacific harvestfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.