Fin's Fish Guide
The Northern gemfish (Rexea prometheoides) is a saltwater fish of the family Gempylidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The royal escolar is a deep-water fish of the snake mackerel family (Gempylidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm and has an elongate, silvery body with large eyes and a large mouth with sharp teeth. It lives benthopelagically on the continental slope at considerable depth and makes nightly migrations to shallower water. As a fast predator it feeds on fishes, crustaceans and cephalopods. Like related snake mackerels it has oily flesh with indigestible wax esters, which can cause intestinal upset if eaten. Owing to its deep habits the species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Northern gemfish?
The Northern gemfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Large eyes and a toothed mouth; fatty flesh with wax esters that can cause intestinal complaints.
Where does the Northern gemfish live?
The Northern gemfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Indo-West Pacific; continental slope at depth.
How big does the Northern gemfish get?
The Northern gemfish grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Northern gemfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Northern gemfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Northern gemfish edible?
The Northern gemfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Rexea
More from the family Gempylidae
Want the complete picture on the Northern gemfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Northern gemfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone