Introduction
The Blacktip Trevally, scientifically known as Caranx heberi, is a species of athletic fish belonging to the family Carangidae, commonly known for their speed and power. These fish are identified by their dark black tips on the dorsal and caudal fins.
Conservation Status
The current conservation status of the Blacktip Trevally is ‘Least Concern’ according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This is primarily due to the species’ wide distribution and apparent large overall population. However, the Blacktip Trevally is often caught as bycatch in various fisheries, which may potentially affect its population numbers.
Statistics
| Statistic | Average | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 60cm | 35-90cm |
| Weight | 4.5kg | 1-10kg |
| Lifespan | 12 years | – |
Distribution
Blacktip Trevally are distributed extensively throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, with their furthest reach being the Hawaiian Islands. Their migratory patterns are generally influenced by temperature changes and food availability.
Habitats
The Blacktip Trevally lives in both shallow coastal waters and in the open ocean. While they prefer waters with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C, they are known to dive down to depths of up to 100 meters.
When and Where to See
The Blacktip Trevally can be sighted year-round in subtropical and tropical regions. They are more frequently observed in the early morning and late afternoon hours.
Best Fishing Locations
The top fishing locations for Blacktip Trevally include:
- Fiji
- Raja Ampat, Indonesia
- Phuket, Thailand
- Hawaiian Islands
- Great Barrier Reef, Australia
When looking to find them in unfamiliar locations, focus on warm coastal waters or coral reefs where there is an abundance of smaller fish, which form part of their diet.
How to Catch
Blacktip Trevally are known to respond well to live bait and lures. They can be caught by different fishing techniques, including trolling and bottom fishing. The best time of day to fish for them is early morning or late afternoon.
Identification Guide
The Blacktip Trevally is silver-white in color with dark tips on its dorsal and caudal fins. They are streamlined shaped, with a pair of large, scythe-like pectoral fins and small, pointed teeth.
Culinary Details
The meat of the Blacktip Trevally has a semi-strong taste, making it a popular choice in a variety of dishes. It is high in protein and contains omega-3 fatty acids. The easiest way to cook Blacktip Trevally is by grilling or baking it, although it can also be used in a traditional seafood stew or curry.
Additional Information
Blacktip Trevally are known to be solitary hunters, however, they are also often seen in small groups. Major predators of Blacktip Trevally include larger marine fish and sharks.
References and Further Reading
Fishbase: Blacktip Trevally
Ocean Conservancy: Facts about the Blacktip Trevally
University of Hawaii at Manoa: Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center