Fiji | 1995 | 5 Cents | Giant Trevally
Giant Trevally
The Giant Trevally (Caranx
ignobilis), also known as the lowly trevally, barrier trevally, or ulua, is
a large marine fish in the jack family, Carangidae. It is found
throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific region, from South Africa to Hawaii,
including Japan and Australia. This species is notable for its steep head
profile, strong tail scutes, and a silvery body, often with dark spots, though
males turn black as they mature. The Giant Trevally is the largest fish in the Caranx
genus, growing up to 170 cm (67 inches) in length and 80 kg (176 lbs) in
weight.
It inhabits a range of marine
environments, from estuaries and lagoons as juveniles to deep reefs and
offshore areas as adults. Juveniles are known to thrive in low-salinity waters,
such as coastal lakes and river mouths. As an apex predator, the Giant Trevally
hunts both individually and in schools, feeding mostly on fish, but also
consuming crustaceans, cephalopods, and molluscs. Their hunting strategies are
unique, including using monk seals and sharks to ambush prey, as well as
leaping to catch birds.
The species spawns during
specific lunar phases in warmer months, with large schools gathering in reefs
and bays. Giant Trevallies grow quickly, reaching sexual maturity around 60 cm
(3 years). They are important both for commercial fisheries and as a gamefish.
Annually, large quantities are caught in Asia and Hawaii, though concerns over
declining numbers in Hawaii have led to proposals to limit fishing.
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