Fin's Fish Guide
The Bonefish (Albula vulpes) is a saltwater fish of the family Albulidae that grows up to 104 cm.
Tropical and subtropical western Atlantic, on shallow sandbanks (flats), in lagoons and mangroves.
Description
The bonefish is a slender, bright silvery fish of the family Albulidae reaching about 1 metre. The streamlined body has an inferior mouth beneath a pointed, pig-like snout, with which the fish roots crustaceans, worms, molluscs and small fish out of the sand. The species lives on shallow tropical and subtropical sand flats, in lagoons and mangroves of the western Atlantic, often in schools that move onto the flats with the rising tide. It is shy and extremely fast. Notably it develops, like eels, through a transparent, leaf-shaped leptocephalus larva. The bonefish is one of the most prized fly-fishing targets in the world and is almost always released; through fishing pressure and habitat degradation it is assessed as Near Threatened (NT).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bonefish?
The Bonefish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender, bright silver fish with an inferior mouth and a pointed, pig-like snout; a fast, shy inhabitant of shallow tropical sand flats. 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 Bonefish live?
The Bonefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Tropical and subtropical western Atlantic, on shallow sandbanks (flats), in lagoons and mangroves.
How big does the Bonefish get?
The Bonefish grows to a maximum of about 104 cm.
Is the Bonefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Bonefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bonefish edible?
The Bonefish is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Bonefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bonefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Albula
More from the family Albulidae
Want the complete picture on the Bonefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bonefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.