Description

Dorsal spines (total): 0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 23 - 27; Anal spines: 0; Anal soft rays: 14 - 18. A gular plate present between arms of lower jaw. Branchiostegal rays numerous, approximately 20-25. All fins without spines. Scales very small, approximately 100 in lateral line.

Common Names

No common names available.

Taxonomic Hierarchy

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Teleostei

Order: Elopiformes

Family: Elopidae

Genus: Elops

Species: Elops hawaiensis Regan, 1909

Climate Zone

Location

Biology

A coastal fish, commonly entering lagoon, bays, and estuaries (including fishponds) (Ref. 2847, 58302), particularly around mangroves (Ref. 44894). Sometimes enters freshwater streams, but does not penetrate very far inland (Ref. 2847). Benthopelagic (Ref. 58302). Younger fish often penetrate the lower freshwater reaches of rivers (Ref. 44894). An active swimmer, commonly traveling in schools in open water. Feeds on various fishes and crustaceans. Little detailed knowledge exists of its biology. Has a leptocephalus larva. Spawning takes place offshore and young larvae are found in the open sea, moving close to shore as they develop. Juveniles commonly found in salt marshes, canals, and tidal streams. Marketed fresh or frozen; in some places ground up as fish meal. A good sport fish on light tackle, striking a variety of artificial lures as well as live shrimp or baitfish. No separate statistics available. (Ref. 10983).

Habitat

freshwater

Conservation Status

Data deficient

Threat to Humans

Harmless