The Atlantic John dory (Zeus faber) is a brackish-water fish of the family Zeidae that grows up to 90 cm.
Description
The John Dory is a strongly compressed fish of the family Zeidae reaching about 90 cm. The deep, olive-yellow body bears a conspicuous dark eyespot ringed in pale on each flank, popularly called 'St Peter's thumbprint'. The dorsal fin has long, thread-like spiny rays. Its hallmark is a large mouth that the fish can shoot forward at great speed to suck in prey. The John Dory is a slow, solitary hunter living close to the bottom in the eastern Atlantic, the North Sea and the Mediterranean, between 50 and 150 m. It hunts schooling fish, occasionally squid and crustaceans, and is a highly prized food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atlantic John dory?
The Atlantic John dory has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Atlantic John dory live?
The Atlantic John dory lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Atlantic John dory get?
The Atlantic John dory grows to a maximum of about 90 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Atlantic John dory dangerous to humans?
No, the Atlantic John dory is harmless to humans.
Is the Atlantic John dory edible?
Yes, the Atlantic John dory is a highly prized food fish.
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Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Zeus
More from the family Zeidae
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