Diamond Trevally

Alectis indica

Habitat & Distribution : Marine, open seas, depths of 20 - 100 m, Indo-West Pacific ocean 

Diet: Fishes, squids and crustaceans

Size: Up to 165 cm; 25 kg

Lifespan: 15 - 20 years

Description

The diamond trevally has a silvery body, with scales embeddd with tiny reflective crystals that give it its shimmering, almost holographic effect. Its juvenile form has a diamond-shaped body with long filamentous dorsal fins, but in the adult form these filaments are absent and the body elongates, becoming silvery blue-green in color.

Behaviors

They are apex predators, preying on various fishes, squids, jellyfish and crustaceans. Adults live in schools, in waters deeper than 60 m. Juveniles are more solitary, and they rely on their filamentous dorsal fins, which seem to resemble the tentacles of box jellyfish to deter its predators.

Reproduction

This fish has been observed spawning / laying eggs in daytime, between the ebbing and flowing of tides.

Communication & Perception

Relies on sight and smell to navigate and find prey. It communicates with its fellow trevallies with sound.

Predator

Sharks, marine mammals.