Atropus atropos (Bloch & Schneider, 1801)
Cleftbelly trevally
Atropus atropos
photo by Shao, K.T.

Family:  Carangidae (Jacks and pompanos), subfamily: Caranginae
Max. size:  31.6 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  pelagic-neritic; marine; depth range 5 - 100 m, amphidromous
Distribution:  Indo-West Pacific.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 9-9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 21-22; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 17-18. This species is easily recognized by its long pelvic fin which fit into a groove along the midline of the belly when depressed. Scutes are present along its straight lateral line. Adult males have prolonged middle rays in the soft dorsal and anal fins. This species attains 25 cm in SL.
Biology:  Adults are common in shallow coastal waters where they often swim near the surface. They feed mainly on shrimps, copepods, decapod crustaceans and small fish.
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 17 July 2017 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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