Fin's Fish Guide
The Ponyfish (Nuchequula nuchalis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Leiognathidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The spotnape ponyfish is a ponyfish (Leiognathidae) from the northwestern Pacific. The species is small, silvery and strongly compressed with a protrusible mouth and a dark spot on the nape. Luminous bacteria live in a light organ around the gullet, with which it can emit faint light. It lives in schools in shallow coastal and brackish zones. It feeds on small zooplankton and small bottom invertebrates. It is a local food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ponyfish?
The Ponyfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Protrusible mouth and a nape blotch; light-producing bacteria in an organ around the oesophagus give off a weak light.
Where does the Ponyfish live?
The Ponyfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Northwest Pacific; shallow coastal and brackish-water zones.
How big does the Ponyfish get?
The Ponyfish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Ponyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Ponyfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Ponyfish edible?
Yes, the Ponyfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Nuchequula
More from the family Leiognathidae
Want the complete picture on the Ponyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ponyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.