Fin's Fish Guide
The Tarpon (Megalops atlanticus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Megalopidae that grows up to 250 cm.
Atlantic Ocean on both sides, in coastal waters, estuaries, lagoons and the lower reaches of rivers; strongly euryhaline.
Description
The tarpon is a large, silvery predator of the family Megalopidae reaching about 2.5 metres. The streamlined body is covered with enormous, shiny scales and has an upturned mouth with a projecting lower jaw; the last dorsal-fin ray is greatly elongated. With its muscular swim bladder it can gulp air and so survive in oxygen-poor water. The species lives in coastal water, estuaries, lagoons and the lower reaches of rivers on both sides of the Atlantic and tolerates strongly varying salinities. In schools it hunts schooling fish, shrimps and crabs. Like eels it has a transparent larval stage (leptocephalus). For its spectacular leaps the tarpon is one of the most prized sport fish worldwide; through overfishing it is assessed as Vulnerable (VU).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tarpon?
The Tarpon has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Large, silvery, armoured predator with enormous scales, an upturned mouth and an elongated last dorsal fin ray; can gulp air with its swim bladder. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with care or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Tarpon live?
The Tarpon lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Atlantic Ocean on both sides, in coastal waters, estuaries, lagoons and the lower reaches of rivers; strongly euryhaline.
How big does the Tarpon get?
The Tarpon grows to a maximum of about 250 cm. On average the species is around 130 cm.
Is the Tarpon dangerous to humans?
No, the Tarpon is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Tarpon edible?
The Tarpon is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Megalops
More from the family Megalopidae
Want the complete picture on the Tarpon?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tarpon is one of 12,519 species in the app.