Maracaibo Leatherjacket
Oligoplites palometa
- Group: Other
- Typical depth: 18–45 m
- Max size: 49.7 cm
- For divers: dangerous
- IUCN status: LC
Adults of this leatherjacket live mostly in brackish and fresh water and return to the sea to spawn, sometimes leaping clear of the surface. Its dorsal and anal spines carry venom glands, so handle with care; oddly, the young feed on scales stripped from larger fish.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Carangiformes › Carangidae › Oligoplites
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 276357.
FAQ
- How deep does the Maracaibo Leatherjacket live?
- The Maracaibo Leatherjacket (Oligoplites palometa) is typically found at 18–45 m.
- Is the Maracaibo Leatherjacket dangerous to divers?
- The Maracaibo Leatherjacket can be dangerous; divers should keep their distance.
- How big does the Maracaibo Leatherjacket get?
- The Maracaibo Leatherjacket grows to about 49.7 cm.