Fin's Fish Guide
The Shortfin pompano (Trachinotus teraia) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Carangidae that grows up to 68 cm.
Eastern Atlantic off West Africa (Senegal to Gabon); brackish coastal waters and river mouths.
Description
The shortfin pompano is a jack (Carangidae) from the eastern Atlantic off the coast of West Africa. The species grows to about 68 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, silvery body with a deeply forked tail and sickle-shaped fins. Notably, it spends its entire life cycle in brackish water without a marine phase: adults live in coastal waters, enter brackish waters to reproduce and ascend rather far up the lower courses of rivers. It feeds on molluscs, crustaceans and small fishes. It is a valued sport and food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shortfin pompano?
The Shortfin pompano has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Spends its entire life cycle in brackish water, without a marine phase; sport fish.
Where does the Shortfin pompano live?
The Shortfin pompano lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Eastern Atlantic off West Africa (Senegal to Gabon); brackish coastal waters and river mouths.
How big does the Shortfin pompano get?
The Shortfin pompano grows to a maximum of about 68 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Shortfin pompano dangerous to humans?
No, the Shortfin pompano is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Shortfin pompano edible?
Yes, the Shortfin pompano is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Trachinotus
More from the family Carangidae
Want the complete picture on the Shortfin pompano?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shortfin pompano is one of 12,519 species in the app.