Fin's Fish Guide
The Pompano (Trachinotus ovatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Carangidae that grows up to 70 cm.
Eastern Atlantic from the British Isles and the Bay of Biscay to West Africa, and the Mediterranean Sea.
Description
The pompano is a fast marine fish of the family Carangidae (jacks) reaching about 70 cm but usually smaller. The deep, strongly compressed body is bright silver with a blue-green back and often carries a few small dark spots on the flank. The deeply forked tail and streamlined shape make it a powerful swimmer. The species occurs in the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean; juveniles live in shallow coastal water and surf, while adults form schools in open water. It hunts small fish and invertebrates and is a valued sport and food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pompano?
The Pompano has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Deep, laterally flattened and silvery; fast, slender swimmer with a deeply forked tail and often a few dark blotches on the flank.
Where does the Pompano live?
The Pompano lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Eastern Atlantic from the British Isles and the Bay of Biscay to West Africa, and the Mediterranean Sea.
How big does the Pompano get?
The Pompano grows to a maximum of about 70 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Pompano dangerous to humans?
No, the Pompano is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Pompano edible?
Yes, the Pompano is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Pompano and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Trachinotus
More from the family Carangidae
Want the complete picture on the Pompano?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pompano is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone