Fin's Fish Guide
The Popeye catalufa (Pristigenys serrula) is a saltwater fish of the family Priacanthidae that grows up to 34 cm.
Description
The popeye catalufa is a reef fish of the bigeye family (Priacanthidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 34 cm and has a deep, deep-red body with very large eyes, adapted to a nocturnal way of life. It is a shy fish that hides by day and prefers deeper water around islands and rocky reefs, often in the company of squirrelfishes and other nocturnal animals. At night it hunts small crustaceans, small fishes and other zooplankton. The large eyes gather the scarce light of the depths. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Popeye catalufa?
The Popeye catalufa has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Deep red with very large eyes for nocturnal life; shelters in deeper reef water during the day.
Where does the Popeye catalufa live?
The Popeye catalufa lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific; deeper water around islands and rocky reefs.
How big does the Popeye catalufa get?
The Popeye catalufa grows to a maximum of about 34 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Popeye catalufa dangerous to humans?
No, the Popeye catalufa is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Popeye catalufa edible?
The Popeye catalufa is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pristigenys
More from the family Priacanthidae
Want the complete picture on the Popeye catalufa?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Popeye catalufa is one of 12,519 species in the app.