Barred Longtom, Ablennes hians (Valenciennes, 1846)
Introduction
The Barred Longtom is found in most tropical and temperate marine waters. It has long thin jaws with relatively large, pointed teeth.
Identification
The Barred Longtom has long thin jaws with relatively large, pointed teeth. The thin, ribbon-like body is deep blue to greenish-blue above. The sides are silvery with dark bars that are most obvious posteriorly.
Habitat
Adults are usually found in oceanic waters. Young fish sometimes enter bays and inlets.
Distribution
It is found worldwide in tropical and subtropical marine waters.
In Australia it is known from south-western Western Australia, around the tropical north and south to the central coast of New South Wales.
The map below shows the Australian distribution of the species based on public sightings and specimens in Australian Museums. Source: Atlas of Living Australia.
References
- Allen, G.R. 1997. Marine Fishes of Tropical Australia and South-east Asia. Western Australian Museum. Pp. 292.
- Allen, G.R. & R. Swainston. 1988. The Marine Fishes of North-Western Australia. A Field Guide for Anglers and Divers. Western Australian Museum. Pp. 201.
- Grant, E.M. 1982. Guide to Fishes. The Department of Harbours and Marine, Brisbane, Queensland. Pp. 896.
- Hutchins, B. & R. Swainston. 1986. Sea Fishes of Southern Australia. Complete Field Guide for Anglers and Divers. Swainston Publishing. Pp. 180.