Fin's Fish Guide
The Rainbow runner (Elagatis bipinnulata) is a saltwater fish of the family Carangidae that grows up to 180 cm.
Widespread in tropical and subtropical seas worldwide, pelagic in open water near reefs, islands and seamounts.
Description
The rainbow runner is a slender, fast jack of the family Carangidae reaching about 1.8 metres. Unlike most jacks it has an elongate, torpedo-shaped body without bony scutes along the tail base. It takes its name from its handsome colours: a blue-green back with two narrow light-blue lengthwise stripes and a broad yellow stripe between them. A small separate finlet stands behind the dorsal and anal fins. The species is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical seas worldwide and lives pelagically in open water near reefs, islands and seamounts, often in fast schools. It hunts small fish, shrimps, squid and zooplankton. With its tasty flesh it is a valued commercial and sport fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Rainbow runner?
The Rainbow runner has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Slender, fast scad with a blue-green back and two light blue and one yellow longitudinal stripe; a small separate finlet behind the dorsal and anal fins. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with caution or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Rainbow runner live?
The Rainbow runner lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Widespread in tropical and subtropical seas worldwide, pelagic in open water near reefs, islands and seamounts.
How big does the Rainbow runner get?
The Rainbow runner grows to a maximum of about 180 cm. On average the species is around 90 cm.
Is the Rainbow runner dangerous to humans?
No, the Rainbow runner is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Rainbow runner edible?
Yes, the Rainbow runner is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Rainbow runner and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Carangidae
Want the complete picture on the Rainbow runner?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Rainbow runner is one of 12,519 species in the app.