Bigeye scad (Selar crumenophthalmus) is a saltwater species recorded in Malaysia. It is found at depths of 0–170 m. The main season in Malaysia runs all year.
Scientific name: Selar crumenophthalmus · Water: Saltwater · Season: All year
Size: up to 38 cm
The bigeye scad is a schooling carangid recognised by its unusually large eye, a deep groove on the shoulder and a small dark spot just behind the pectoral fin. It is a tropical, largely nocturnal fish that prefers clean, clear water around islands, feeding on small invertebrates, fish larvae and zooplankton, and it is found right around Malaysia. It is fished both for human consumption and for bait and shows up almost daily in Malaysian wet markets; boat anglers take it on sabiki strings or tiny metal jigs, while shore anglers gather it at jetties and breakwaters with a light on the water, especially around Penang, Kuantan and Kota Kinabalu. It schools tightly and bites readily, which makes it a good first target for new anglers.
Caution: large individuals carry a ciguatera risk. Heat, cold and marinating do not remove the toxin, which concentrates in the liver, roe and head, so avoid eating those parts. Seek medical help if numbness, tingling or a reversed sense of hot and cold follows a meal.
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