Wenchman (Pristipomoides aquilonaris) is a saltwater species recorded in the United States. It is found at depths of 24–370 m.
Scientific name: Pristipomoides aquilonaris · Water: Saltwater
Size: up to 56 cm
The wenchman is a demersal lutjanid of deep water, recorded from 24 to 370 m. It feeds mainly on small fishes and is a good food fish, marketed fresh and rarely frozen. Maximum length is about 56 cm total length, commonly about 20 cm. It is a minor commercial species and a gamefish, with a very high price category. Fishing vulnerability is moderate to high at 45 of 100 and resilience 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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