The Three-striped whiptail (Pentapodus trivittatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Nemipteridae that grows up to 28 cm.
Asia: Solomon Is., Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Micronesia, Palau and others
Description
The three-striped whiptail is a threadfin bream (Nemipteridae) from the western Pacific. The species grows to about 28 cm and has an elongate, silvery body with a few dark longitudinal stripes along the flank. As a bottom-oriented predator it lives over sand, rubble and reef bottoms and hunts small crustaceans, worms and small fish. It is a food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Three-striped whiptail?
The Three-striped whiptail has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Three-striped whiptail live?
The Three-striped whiptail lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Solomon Is., Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Micronesia, Palau and others
How big does the Three-striped whiptail get?
The Three-striped whiptail grows to a maximum of about 28 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Three-striped whiptail dangerous to humans?
No, the Three-striped whiptail is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Three-striped whiptail edible?
The Three-striped whiptail is rarely eaten.

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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pentapodus
More from the family Nemipteridae

Want the complete picture on the Three-striped whiptail?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Three-striped whiptail is one of 12,519 species in the app.