Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackflash ribbonfish (Trachipterus jacksonensis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Trachipteridae that grows up to 220 cm.
Temperate waters of the southern hemisphere; oceanic and mesopelagic, sometimes estuaries.
Description
Jackson's ribbonfish is a large, ribbon-shaped deep-sea fish of the ribbonfish family (Trachipteridae) from the temperate waters of the southern hemisphere. The species grows to about 2.2 metres and has a strongly laterally compressed, silvery, ribbon-like body with a red dorsal fin running the whole length of the back and a conspicuously upward-pointing tail fin. It lives oceanically and mesopelagically in open water and sometimes enters estuaries. As a predator it feeds on squid, small fishes and crustaceans. Owing to its rarity and deep habits it is usually seen only when it washes ashore. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackflash ribbonfish?
The Blackflash ribbonfish has a snake-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Ribbon-shaped silvery body with a red dorsal fin along the entire back and an upward-directed caudal fin.
Where does the Blackflash ribbonfish live?
The Blackflash ribbonfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Temperate waters of the southern hemisphere; oceanic and mesopelagic, sometimes estuaries.
How big does the Blackflash ribbonfish get?
The Blackflash ribbonfish grows to a maximum of about 220 cm. On average the species is around 200 cm.
Is the Blackflash ribbonfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackflash ribbonfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blackflash ribbonfish edible?
The Blackflash ribbonfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Trachipterus
More from the family Trachipteridae
Want the complete picture on the Blackflash ribbonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackflash ribbonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.