Indo-Pacific Tarpon

Megalops cyprinoides

The Indo-Pacific Tarpon is a member of the pelagic fish group, belonging to the family Megalopidae. It has an elongated and compressed body shape, with no dorsal or anal spines but 16 to 21 dorsal soft rays and 23 to 31 anal soft rays. This species can grow up to 150 cm in total length and weigh up to 18 kg. Divers may encounter these fish in marine, freshwater, and brackish environments, often in river mouths, inner bays, and mangrove forests. They are capable of tolerating a wide range of pH levels and salinities, making them quite adaptable to various habitats. The depth range for this species is typically between 1 and 50 meters, with most occurrences shallower than 40 meters. The Indo-Pacific Tarpon is a predatory fish, feeding mainly on other fish and crustaceans. It is known for its ability to breathe air, frequently rising to the surface to do so. This species breeds offshore, possibly throughout the year, and its larvae are transparent and resemble larval eels. Juveniles often enter freshwater environments, adapting to both clear and turbid waters. While the Indo-Pacific Tarpon is harmless to humans, it is considered a popular game fish and is caught using various methods such as gill nets, seines, and trawls. Despite being edible, it is not highly esteemed as a food fish. The IUCN Red List categorizes this species as Data Deficient.