Lookdown (Selene vomer) is a saltwater, brackish species recorded in the United States. It is found at depths of 1–53 m.
Scientific name: Selene vomer · Water: Saltwater, Brackish
Size: up to 48.3 cm
The lookdown is a demersal carangid of shallow coastal waters, usually over hard or sandy bottoms, recorded from 1 to 53 m. It occurs in schools but may also be found in small groups or in pairs, and it feeds on small crabs, shrimps, fishes and worms. Juveniles may be encountered in estuarine areas and off sandy beaches. Maximum length is about 48 cm total length, commonly about 35 cm. The flesh is excellent eating and is marketed fresh. It is a minor commercial species, a gamefish and is kept in public aquariums. Fishing vulnerability is low to moderate at 32 of 100 and resilience medium, and the price category is medium. IUCN lists it as least concern.
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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