Fin's Fish Guide
The Peruvian mojarra (Diapterus peruvianus) is a saltwater fish of the family Gerreidae that grows up to 35 cm.
Description
Diapterus peruvianus, the Peruvian mojarra, is a silvery coastal fish of the family Gerreidae from the eastern Pacific. The species has a deep, laterally compressed, shining silver body and a strongly protrusible mouth with which it sucks prey from the bottom; it reaches about 35 cm. It is common in coastal waters: juveniles stay in lagoons of mangrove areas and tidal creeks, while adults live over soft bottoms of deeper water and sometimes enter brackish water. The diet consists of benthic invertebrates and fishes. The flesh is of good quality and the species is fished commercially.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Peruvian mojarra?
The Peruvian mojarra has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Highly protrusible mouth for sucking prey from the bottom; shiny silvery body.
Where does the Peruvian mojarra live?
The Peruvian mojarra lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Coastal waters and mangrove areas of the eastern Pacific.
How big does the Peruvian mojarra get?
The Peruvian mojarra grows to a maximum of about 35 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Peruvian mojarra dangerous to humans?
No, the Peruvian mojarra 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 Peruvian mojarra edible?
Yes, the Peruvian mojarra is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Peruvian mojarra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Peruvian mojarra is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Diapterus
More from the family Gerreidae
Want the complete picture on the Peruvian mojarra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Peruvian mojarra is one of 12,519 species in the app.