Shortjaw bonefish facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Albula glossodonta |
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| Conservation status | |
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Albulidae
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| Genus: |
Albula
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| Species: |
A. glossodonta
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| Binomial name | |
| Albula glossodonta (Forsskål, 1775)
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The Albula glossodonta is also known as the roundjaw bonefish. You might also hear it called the shortjaw bonefish or Indo-Pacific bonefish. This fish lives in the ocean, mainly in the Pacific Ocean. It can grow to be about 70 centimeters long.
Shortjaw bonefish are very important for people living in coastal Pacific islands. Many communities depend on these fish for food. However, there are now fewer of these fish in many areas where they used to live.
About Bonefish Species
For a long time, people thought there was only one type of bonefish in the whole world. But scientists have now found that there are actually 9 different kinds! Three of these species live in the Atlantic Ocean. The other six species are found in the Pacific Ocean.
What Do They Look Like?
Shortjaw bonefish can grow to be quite big. Some of these fish can weigh more than 20 pounds!
Fishing for Bonefish
Catching shortjaw bonefish for fun is a popular activity. Many people enjoy fishing for them in places like Hawaii, the Cook Islands, Christmas Island, and French Polynesia.
When fishing, it's important to be careful, especially when you release the fish. Sometimes, after bonefish are let go, sharks might try to eat them. Sharks that live on sandy areas can easily find bonefish that are tired or hurt. Studies have shown that many bonefish can be eaten by sharks soon after they are released.
To help the bonefish survive, anglers should try to bring them in quickly. It's also best to handle the fish as little as possible. Releasing the fish faster gives it a better chance to swim away safely. If you are fishing in an area with many sharks, it's a good idea to look around carefully before you start.
