Fin's Fish Guide
The Yellowfin mojarra (Gerres cinereus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Gerreidae that grows up to 41 cm.
Western Atlantic and eastern Pacific, over sand and silty bottoms of coastal water, estuaries and seagrass; tolerates brackish water.
Description
The yellowfin mojarra is a mirror-silver fish of the family Gerreidae (mojarras) reaching about 41 cm. The laterally compressed body bears faint grey-blue crossbars and yellow pelvic fins, and stands out for its far downward-protrusible, tube-shaped mouth with which the fish sucks prey from the soft bottom. The species forms schools over sand and mud bottoms of coastal water, estuaries and seagrass along both the western Atlantic and eastern Pacific coasts and tolerates brackish water. On the bottom it searches for worms, small crustaceans and molluscs. With its tasty flesh it is a valued coastal fish and a much-used bait fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yellowfin mojarra?
The Yellowfin mojarra has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Mirror-like silvery fish with faint greyish-blue vertical bars, yellow pelvic fins and a tube mouth that can be protruded far downwards. 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 Yellowfin mojarra live?
The Yellowfin mojarra lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic and eastern Pacific, over sand and silty bottoms of coastal water, estuaries and seagrass; tolerates brackish water.
How big does the Yellowfin mojarra get?
The Yellowfin mojarra grows to a maximum of about 41 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Yellowfin mojarra dangerous to humans?
No, the Yellowfin mojarra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Yellowfin mojarra edible?
Yes, the Yellowfin mojarra is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gerres
More from the family Gerreidae
Want the complete picture on the Yellowfin mojarra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellowfin mojarra is one of 12,519 species in the app.