Elagatis
Elagatis is a genus of large, fast-swimming fish in the jack family, Carangidae. This genus contains only one species, Elagatis bipinnulatus, commonly known as the African pompano, elagatis, rainbow runner, runner, yellowtail, yellow-tailed amberjack, or banded runner. This species is found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world, primarily in the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans.
Characteristics
Elagatis are distinguished by their streamlined, torpedo-shaped bodies. They can reach lengths of up to 2 meters (6.6 feet) and weights of up to 45 kilograms (99 pounds). They possess a distinctive yellow band that extends from their head to their tail. This band can be quite vibrant in younger fish. The body is covered in small, smooth scales, and the fish have a deep forked tail with crescent-shaped lobes. Elagatis are strong swimmers, capable of reaching speeds of up to 60 kilometers per hour (37 miles per hour).
Environment
Rainbow runners prefer warm, clear waters, typically found near reefs, wrecks, and other rocky structures. They are highly pelagic, meaning they inhabit the open ocean, but they are often observed near the surface and along the coast. Their distribution ranges from the tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans.
Diet
Rainbow runners are carnivores and opportunistic feeders, consuming a variety of prey including:
- Small fish
- Squid
- Crustaceans
- Plankton
Reproduction
The spawning season for Elagatis varies depending on location. Spawning generally occurs in warmer months, with eggs and larvae developing in the open ocean. Rainbow runners are known to form large schools, which can consist of hundreds of individuals.
Conservation Status
The conservation status of Elagatis is listed as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, fishing pressure can have an impact on populations in some regions.