Fin's Fish Guide
The Ponyfish (Leiognathus brevirostris) is a brackish-water fish of the family Leiognathidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The shortnose ponyfish is a ponyfish (Leiognathidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a deep, laterally compressed, shiny silvery body with a highly protrusible mouth and a short snout. Around the gullet it bears a light organ with luminous bacteria. It lives in shallow water to about forty metres, predominantly near the bottom, and forms schools. With its protrusible mouth it takes small bottom life and plankton. 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. Far protrusible mouth and a light organ with light-producing bacteria around the oesophagus; schooling ponyfish.
Where does the Ponyfish live?
The Ponyfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Indo-West Pacific; shallow water near the bottom.
How big does the Ponyfish get?
The Ponyfish grows to a maximum of about 18 cm. On average the species is around 11 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 Leiognathus
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.