Pilotfish (Naucrates ductor) is a saltwater species recorded in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia, United States. It is mainly found over reef, at depths of 0–300 m. The main season in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia, United States runs all year.
Scientific name: Naucrates ductor · Water: Saltwater · Season: All year
Size: up to 70 cm
The pilotfish is a carangid with a semi-obligate commensal relationship with sharks, rays, other bony fishes and turtles: it travels with a large host and feeds on scraps of the host's food, its parasites and its excrement, as well as on small fishes and invertebrates. Its young are usually associated with jellyfish and drifting seaweed. The eggs are pelagic. Commonly about 40 cm and up to 70 cm total length, from 0 to 300 m and in season all year. Sold fresh, salted or dried, and taken at the surface with hand nets. Medium priced.
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