Fin's Fish Guide
The Wenchman (Pristipomoides aquilonaris) is a saltwater fish of the family Lutjanidae that grows up to 56 cm.
Description
The wenchman (Pristipomoides aquilonaris) is a slender snapper of the family Lutjanidae from the western Atlantic. The species has a streamlined, pink to reddish silver body with a deeply forked tail and large eyes, and reaches about 56 cm. It is a deep-water species occurring over hard and soft bottoms of the continental shelf and slope. As a carnivore it feeds mainly on small fishes. The species is a good food fish marketed fresh, and rarely frozen. In larger specimens there are reports of ciguatera poisoning after consumption.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Wenchman?
The Wenchman has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Slender deep-water snapper with a deeply forked tail and large eyes. 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 Wenchman live?
The Wenchman lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Continental shelf and slope of the western Atlantic.
How big does the Wenchman get?
The Wenchman grows to a maximum of about 56 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Wenchman dangerous to humans?
The Wenchman is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fish is harmless to handle. There are reports of ciguatera poisoning after eating larger specimens; in case of tingling, nausea, vomiting or reversed hot-cold sensation, seek medical help.
Is the Wenchman edible?
The Wenchman is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pristipomoides
More from the family Lutjanidae
Want the complete picture on the Wenchman?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Wenchman is one of 12,519 species in the app.