Golden trevally

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Golden trevally

Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Carangidae
Genus: Gnathanodon
Bleeker, 1851
Species: G. speciosus
Binomial name
Gnathanodon speciosus
(Forsskål, 1775)

The golden trevally (Gnathanodon speciosus) is a tropical marine fish in the jack family (Carangidae). Native to the eastern Pacific Ocean from southern California to Ecuador, it is associated with reefs and usually found within the upper ten m (30 ft) of the surface. Juveniles are usually bright yellow with vertical black bars, which alternate between broad and narrow. In adults this coloration fades to a silvery color with the bars faint or absent.

Golden trevallies often follow large fish such as this giant grouper.
Golden trevallies often follow large fish such as this giant grouper.

Golden trevallies are schooling fish which often follow other large fish, such as sharks, as well as SCUBA divers, for protection from predators. They feed on small fishes and on benthic crustaceans and other invertebrates. Juvenile individuals may be found living in the tentacles of jellies.

Juvenile golden trevallies may be found in the aquarium trade due to their bright coloration. Adults may be used as food fish.

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