Distribution:

Atlantic, Indian and Pacific oceans, including the Mediterranean Sea. The eastern Pacific population is recognized as subspecies A rochei eudorax.Highly migratory species, Annex I of the 1982 Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Diagnosis:

Dorsal spines (total): 9-12; Dorsal softrays (total): 10-13; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft-rays: 12-14

Biology:

Adults are principally caught in coastal waters and around islands. Forms schools. Feeds on small fishes, particularly anchovies, crustaceans (especially crab and stomatopod larvae) and squids. Because of their abundance, they are considered an important element of the food web, particularly as forage for other species of commercial interest. Also caught with encircling nets and troll lines. Marketed fresh and frozen and also dried/salted, smoked and canned.

Max. size: 50.0 cm

Environment: pelagic; depth range - 10 m

Climate: tropical; 27.9°C; 45°N - 47°S

Canary Islands country information: Name: Melba