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Pompano (Trachinotus ovatus)

Key facts

Scientific name
Trachinotus ovatus
Common name
Pompano
Category
Fish
Family
Carangidae
Genus
Trachinotus
Size
30–70 cm
Depth
0–50 m
IUCN status
Least concern (LC)
Danger level
Harmless
Habitats
open-water, sand
Behaviours
schooling, fast-moving
Ocean zones
Asian Pacific, East Atlantic, Macaronesia, Mediterranean

Description

Trachinotus ovatus reaches 70 cm. Pompano (Carangidae) with compact high silver body with 5-6 irregular round black spots on flanks, strongly forked tail. Distribution Mediterranean, East Atlantic (England to Cape Verde) and Canaries. Lives in schools from 0 to 50 m in surf zone, breakers and coastal sands. Predator of crustaceans and small fish. Appreciated sport and commercial fishery. Discreet photo subject in coastal schools.

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Pompano?
Pompano (Trachinotus ovatus) reaches 30–70 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Pompano?
Pompano is found between 0–50 m deep.
Is the Pompano dangerous to divers?
Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Pompano?
IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
Where can you find the Pompano?
Found in: Asian Pacific, East Atlantic, Macaronesia, Mediterranean.

Other species in the genus Trachinotus

  • Trachinotus falcatus - Permit
  • Trachinotus goodei - Palometa

Other species in the family Carangidae

  • Seriola dumerili - Greater amberjack
  • Caranx latus - Horse-eye jack
  • Caranx melampygus - Bluefin trevally
  • Caranx crysos - Blue runner
  • Caranx ruber - Bar jack
  • Pseudocaranx dentex - White trevally

Sources

  • Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 126819)
  • Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
  • Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 5210674)
  • Conservation: IUCN Red List
  • Encyclopedia: Wikipedia