Scomberoides

Scomberoides is a genus of large, predatory fish belonging to the family Carangidae, commonly known as jacks or trevallies. They are found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting coastal and offshore waters, often near reefs and rocky areas. These fish are highly sought-after for their delicious flesh and are a significant part of artisanal fisheries in many regions.

Doublespotted queenfish – Scomberoides lysan

Characteristics

Scomberoides species share several distinct features that distinguish them from other carangids. They are characterized by their elongated, fusiform bodies with a slightly compressed profile. Their heads are relatively small and pointed, with a large mouth containing sharp, pointed teeth. These fish are often brightly colored, with silver or gray flanks and dark dorsal and ventral surfaces. They possess two dorsal fins, the first being spiny and the second being soft-rayed. Their anal fin is similar in structure to the second dorsal fin. A prominent lateral line runs along their body, typically curving upwards towards the tail.

Species

The genus Scomberoides comprises six recognized species:

  • Scomberoides commersonnianus (Lacépède, 1801) - Common Scomberoides
  • Scomberoides lysan (Forsskål, 1775) - Brown-spotted Scomberoides
  • Scomberoides tala (Cuvier, 1833) - Yellowtail Scomberoides
  • Scomberoides tolli (Smith, 1938) - Tolly's Scomberoides
  • Scomberoides variegatus (Cuvier, 1833) - Mottled Scomberoides
  • Scomberoides sanctipetri (Cuvier, 1833) - Saint Peter's Scomberoides

Habitat and Ecology

Scomberoides species are typically found in coastal and offshore waters, often near reefs, rocky areas, and seamounts. They prefer warm, tropical and subtropical environments. These fish are highly mobile and often form schools, especially during feeding. Their diet consists primarily of smaller fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods, which they hunt using their agility and speed. They are known to exhibit territorial behavior, especially during breeding season. Spawning occurs in open waters, with females producing large numbers of eggs. The larvae and juveniles remain in shallow waters for several months before migrating to deeper waters as adults.

Commercial Importance

Scomberoides species are commercially valuable for their delicious flesh. They are caught by artisanal fisheries using various methods, including gill nets, handlines, and traps. They are often sold fresh, dried, salted, or smoked. Their popularity as a food source has led to concerns about overfishing in some areas, requiring careful management to ensure their sustainable exploitation.

References

  • Froese, Rainer and Pauly, Daniel (eds.) (2023). "Scomberoides" in FishBase. December 2023 version.https://www.fishbase.org/summary/Scomberoides.html
  • Carpenter, K.E. (2002). "Scomberoides" in: Carpenter, K.E. and Niem, V.H. (eds.) FAO Species Identification Guide for Fishery Purposes. The Living Marine Resources of the Western Central Pacific. Vol. 5. Bony Fishes Part 3 (Menidae to Pomadasyidae). Rome, FAO. pp. 2707-2712.https://www.fao.org/3/Y4490E/Y4490E00.htm
  • Randall, J.E. (2001). "Carangidae" in: Carpenter, K.E. and Niem, V.H. (eds.) FAO Species Identification Guide for Fishery Purposes. The Living Marine Resources of the Western Central Pacific. Vol. 5. Bony Fishes Part 3 (Menidae to Pomadasyidae). Rome, FAO. pp. 2697-2705.https://www.fao.org/3/Y4490E/Y4490E00.htm