# Coastal fish

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**Coastal fish**, also called **inshore fish** or **neritic fish**, inhabit the sea between the [shoreline](/source/Shoreline) and the edge of the [continental shelf](/source/Continental_shelf). Since the continental shelf is usually less than 200 metres (660 ft) deep, it follows that [pelagic](/source/Pelagic_fish) coastal fish are generally [epipelagic fish](/source/Pelagic_fish#Epipelagic_fish), inhabiting the sunlit [epipelagic zone](/source/Epipelagic_zone).[1] Coastal fish can be contrasted with *oceanic fish* or *offshore fish*, which inhabit the deep seas beyond the continental shelves.

Coastal fish are the most abundant in the world.[2] They can be found in [tidal pools](/source/Tidal_pool), [fjords](/source/Fjord) and [estuaries](/source/Estuaries), near sandy shores and rocky coastlines, around [coral reefs](/source/Coral_reef) and on or above the continental shelf. Coastal fish include [forage fish](/source/Forage_fish) and the [predator fish](/source/Predator_fish) that feed on them. Forage fish thrive in inshore waters where high [productivity](/source/Primary_production) results from [upwelling](/source/Upwelling) and shoreline run off of nutrients. Some are partial residents that spawn in streams, estuaries and bays, but most complete their life cycles in the zone.[2]

## Coastal habitats

Coastal fish are found in the waters above the [continental shelves](/source/Continental_shelf) that extend from the continental [shorelines](/source/Shoreline), and around the [coral reefs](/source/Coral_reef) that surround volcanic islands. The total world shoreline extends for 356,000 km (221,000 mi)[3] and the continental shelves occupy a total area of 24.3 million km2 (9 376 million sq mi).[4] This is nearly 5% of the world's total area of 510 million km2.[3]

## Nearshore fish

Nearshore fish, sometimes called **littoral fish**, live close to the shore. They are associated with the [intertidal zone](/source/Intertidal_zone), or with [estuaries](/source/Estuaries), [lagoons](/source/Lagoon), [coral reefs](/source/Coral_reef), [kelp forests](/source/Kelp_forest), [seagrass meadows](/source/Seagrass_meadow), or rocky or sandy bottoms, usually in shallow waters less than about 10 m (33 ft) deep.

### Intertidal fish

See also: [intertidal ecology](/source/Intertidal_ecology) and [tidal pool](/source/Tidal_pool)

Intertidal fish are fish that move in and out with the [tide](/source/Tide) in the [intertidal zone](/source/Intertidal_zone) of the [seashore](/source/Coast), or are found in [rock pools](/source/Rock_pool) or under rocks.

The [intertidal zone](/source/Intertidal_zone) of rocky shores can contain indentations which trap pools of salty water, called [rock pools](/source/Rock_pool). Living in these habitats are communities of hardy plant and animal species specially adapted for coping with the volatile environment around them. The plants and animals interact with each other and with the rock pool to form miniature [ecosystems](/source/Ecosystem), easily accessible to students and a source of fascination for young children. Plants such as [seaweeds](/source/Seaweed), cnidarians such as [sea anemones](/source/Sea_anemone), arthropods like [barnacles](/source/Barnacle), and [molluscs](/source/Mollusc) such as the common [limpet](/source/Limpet) and the [common periwinkle](/source/Common_periwinkle) can be permanent residents of rock pools. But most rock pool animals, such as [crabs](/source/Crab), [shrimp](/source/Shrimp) and fish are just temporary residents, occupying a rock pool only until the next tide takes them to a new location.

Some rock pool fish which are temporary residents include the [long-spined sea scorpion](/source/Long-spined_Sea_Scorpion), the pipefish worm,[5] the [rock goby](/source/Rock_goby) and the common [lumpsucker](/source/Lumpsucker). However some other rock pool fish are territorial in nature, and will stay with the same pool for extended periods. Examples are the [common blenny](/source/Lipophrys_pholis) and its near relative the [butterfish](/source/Rock_gunnel).

- The common [blenny](/source/Blenny), also known as the shanny, is found in northern temperate waters. They hide under rocks and in crannies in rock pools when the tide is out. They feed on green seaweed and invertebrates such as barnacles. They can crawl on dry land, using their paired fins. About 16 cm (6.3 in) long, they have smooth skin, without scales, and are covered with soft slime. The slime prevents them drying if they are stranded on a shore between tides. So long as their skin stays moist, they can breathe out of water. They are sometimes called "sea frogs" because they bask in the sun on weeds outside the water, and like frogs, jump to safety when disturbed. They can change their colour to match their surroundings. The female lays eggs in crevices or under stones and the male guards them until they hatch. In the winter, when storms can be severe, they move out of their rock pools into the shallows. The common blenny is bold with strong teeth, and will bite humans if it feels threatened.[6]
- The [rock goby](/source/Rock_goby) is a small fish, about 12 cm (4.7 in), found in northern temperate waters. It is coloured black with white blotches, and hides under stones and amongst seaweed. It is a temporary resident of rock pools when the tide is out. The female rock goby lays eggs on the underside of rocks and shells and then leaves them. The male guards the eggs until they hatch. First-year rock gobies often visit rock pools in winter when the older fish have left.

- The [long-spined sea scorpion](/source/Long-spined_Sea_Scorpion), a small stout fish which grows about 29 cm (11 in) long, is another temporary resident of rocky pools. They have large black eyes, a large mouth, and four long spines—two on each side on the gill cover—that stick out when the fish is removed from the water. They also have an organ like a finger on each side of their mouths which helps them catch prey. Because of their broad heads, they are also called "bullheads". They have a variety of effective camouflaged colours ranging from shades of browns with cream blotches, to orange and red with white blotches. They can also change their body colour to match their surroundings. They are found around the coasts of Northern Europe in shallow rocky waters hiding amongst seaweed. They are also found in rock pools and sometimes in waters 30 m (98 ft)deep. Long-spined sea scorpions lay eggs amongst seaweed or attached to rock crevices. The young hatch after two or three weeks, and go through several development stages before maturing into adults.
- [Lumpsuckers](/source/Lumpsucker) are found in temperate northern waters. They live on the seafloor, and are temporary residents of rocky pools in late winter and early spring when they spawn. The body of the lumpsucker is scaleless and covered with small lumps. They have a large sucking disc on their underside which they use to cling to surfaces. They are normally a blue to slate-grey colour, and are effectively camouflaged to look like stones. They are portly, nearly spherical, poor swimmers, reaching lengths up to 50 cm (20 in). After the female lumpsucker lays eggs, the male takes over, clamping itself to a rock where it guards the eggs. When they hatch, lumpsuckers look like tiny tadpoles. They remain in shallow water and rock pools, hiding amongst seaweed and rocks, until they grow up.

### Estuarine fish

See also: [estuary](/source/Estuary), [mangrove](/source/Mangrove) and [brackish water](/source/Brackish_water)

[Estuaries](/source/Estuaries) are partly enclosed coastal bodies of water with one or more [rivers](/source/River) or [streams](/source/Stream) flowing into them, and with a free connection to the open sea.[7] These [brackish water](/source/Brackish_water) habitats form a transition zone between river environments and ocean environments, and [ecological successions](/source/Ecological_succession) can form along the way. Estuaries are subject to both marine influences, such as tides, waves, and the influx of saline water; and riverine influences, such as flows of fresh water and sediment. The inflow of both seawater and freshwater provide high levels of nutrients in both the water column and sediment, making estuaries productive natural habitats.[8]

Fishes that spend time in [estuaries](/source/Estuaries) (or [river mouths](/source/River_mouth)) need to be [euryhaline](/source/Euryhaline) (tolerant to a range of salinities). Estuaries provide an unstable environment for fish, where the salinity changes and the waters are often muddy and turbulent. In warmer climates, estuaries have [mangroves](/source/Mangrove) around their edges. At times there may be only a few different fish species present in an estuary, but seasonal migrants, including [eels](/source/Eel), [salmonids](/source/Salmonid), and some [forage fish](/source/Forage_fish) such as [herrings](/source/Herring) and [sprats](/source/Sprat) increase the [diversity](/source/Biological_diversity) in the estuary.[9]

River estuaries form important staging points during the migration of [anadromous and catadromus](/source/Fish_migration) fish species, such as [salmon](/source/Salmon) and [eels](/source/Eel), giving them time to form social groups and to adjust to the changes in salinity. Salmon are anadromous, meaning they live in the sea but ascend rivers to spawn; eels are catadromous, living in rivers and streams, but returning to the sea to breed. Besides the species that migrate through estuaries, there are many other fish that use them as "nursery grounds" for spawning or as places young fish can feed and grow before moving elsewhere. For example, [herring](/source/Herring) and [plaice](/source/Plaice) are two commercially important species that use the Thames Estuary for this purpose.

[Mangrove swamps](/source/Mangrove_swamp) are associated brackish water habitats. Many, though not all, mangrove swamps fringe estuaries and lagoons where the salinity changes with each tide. Among the most specialised residents of mangrove forests are [mudskippers](/source/Mudskippers), fish that forage for food on land, and [archer fish](/source/Archer_fish), perch-like fish that "spit" at insects and other small animals living in the trees, knocking them into the water where they can be eaten. Like estuaries, mangrove swamps are important breeding grounds for many fish, with species such as [snappers](/source/Lutjanidae), [halfbeaks](/source/Halfbeak), and [tarpon](/source/Tarpon) spawning or maturing among them.

### Coral reef fish

Main article: [Coral reef fish](/source/Coral_reef_fish)

In tropical waters, coral reef fish live amongst or in close relation to [coral reefs](/source/Coral_reef). Coral reefs form complex [ecosystems](/source/Ecosystem) with tremendous [biodiversity](/source/Biodiversity). Coral reef fish can be particularly colourful and interesting to watch. Hundreds of species can exist in a small area of a healthy reef, many of them hidden or well camouflaged. Reef fish have developed many ingenious specialisations adapted to survival on the reefs. Coral reefs occupy less than one per cent of the surface area of the world oceans, yet they provide a home for 25 per cent of all marine fish species.

Coral reefs often depend on other habitats in the surrounding area for the supply of nutrients, such as [seagrass meadows](/source/Seagrass_meadow) and [mangrove forests](/source/Mangrove_forest). Seagrass and mangroves supply dead plants and animals which are rich in nitrogen and also serve to feed fish and animals from the reef by supplying wood and vegetation. Reefs in turn protect mangroves and seagrass from waves and produce [sediment](/source/Sediment) for the mangroves and seagrass to root in.[10]

[Anthias](/source/Anthias) are members of the family [Serranidae](/source/Serranidae) and make up the subfamily Anthiinae. They are widespread in tropical waters. They have been called the "quintessential [reef fish](/source/Reef_fish)", and make up a sizeable portion of the colourful [fishes](/source/Fish) seen swarming in [coral reef](/source/Coral_reef) photography. Anthias are mostly small, peaceful, beautiful and popular as [ornamental fish](/source/Ornamental_fish). They are mainly [zooplankton](/source/Zooplankton) feeders. Anthias [shoal and school](/source/Shoaling_and_schooling) in large numbers, operating more intimate "harems" within the schools. These harems contain a dominant and colourful male, between 2 and 12 females — who operate a hierarchy among themselves — and one or two "subdominant" males, often less brightly coloured and non-territorial. Within the swarm of females, territorial males perform acrobatic U-swim displays and vigorously defend an area of the reef and its associated harem. Anthias are [protogynous](/source/Protogynous) [hermaphrodites](/source/Hermaphrodite). All anthias are born female; if a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group will often change into a male to take its place. This may lead to squabbling between the next largest male and the transforming female, whose hormones are now surging with testosterone. This can turn quite vicious in the limited confines of captivity.

[Butterflyfish](/source/Butterflyfish) are group of about 120 species belonging to the family Chaetodontidaeof Perchiformes. They include [bannerfish](/source/Bannerfish) and [coralfish](/source/Coralfish). They are widespread on coral reefs. Butterflyfish are mostly between 12 and 22 centimetres (4.7 and 8.7 in) in length. The largest species, the [lined butterflyfish](/source/Lined_butterflyfish) and [saddle butterflyfish](/source/Saddle_butterflyfish), grow to 30 centimetres (12 in). Many species are brightly coloured and strikingly patterned, though other species are dull in colour. Many have eyespots on their flanks and dark bands across their eyes, not unlike the patterns seen on [butterfly](/source/Butterfly) wings.[11]: 184 Their deep, [laterally](/source/Anatomical_terms_of_location) narrow bodies are easily noticed through the profusion of reef life. The conspicuous colouration of butterflyfish may be intended for interspecies communication. Butterflyfish have uninterrupted [dorsal fins](/source/Dorsal_fin) with [tail fins](/source/Fish_anatomy#Types_of_fin) that may be rounded or truncated, but are never forked. Generally diurnal and frequenting waters of less than 18 metres (59 ft) (though some species descend to 180 metres (590 ft)), butterflyfish stick to particular home ranges. The [corallivores](/source/Coral) are especially territorial, forming mated pairs and staking claim to a specific coral head. Contrastingly, the [zooplankton](/source/Zooplankton) feeders form large conspecific groups. By night butterflyfish hide in reef crevices and exhibit markedly different colouration. Their colouration also makes butterflyfish popular [aquarium](/source/Aquarium) fish. However, most species feed on [coral](/source/Coral) [polyps](/source/Polyp_(zoology)) and [sea anemones](/source/Sea_anemone), which can result in problems for the hobby aquarists.

[Clownfish](/source/Clownfish), [anemonefish](/source/Anemonefish) and [damselfish](/source/Damselfish) are among about 360 species classified in the family [Pomacentridae](/source/Pomacentridae).[12][13] Most Pomacentrids are associated with coral reefs in the Indo-West Pacific,[14] with a few species occurring in temperate waters. Some species are native to freshwater or brackish [estuarine](/source/Estuary) environments.[11]: 205–208[15] Most live in shallow water, from 2 to 15 meters (6.6 to 49.2 ft), although some species are found below 100 m (330 ft).[16] Most species are specialists, living in specific parts of the reef, such as sandy lagoons, steep reef slopes, or areas exposed to strong wave action. In general, the coral is used as shelter, and many species can only survive in its presence.[11] The bottom-dwelling species are territorial, occupying and defending a portion of the reef, often centred around an area of shelter. By keeping away other species of fish, some pomacentrids encourage the growth of thick mats of algae within their territories, leading to the common name [farmerfish](/source/Dusky_farmerfish).[11] Different species display a wide range of colours, although some are relatively drab. Pomacentrids are omnivorous or herbivorous, feeding off algae, [plankton](/source/Plankton), and small bottom-dwelling [crustaceans](/source/Crustacean). A small number eat coral.[11]

[Goatfishes](/source/Goatfish) are a family Mullidae of about 55 species of perciform fishes, associated worldwide with tropical [reefs](/source/Reef).[11]: 186 They are typically about 20 cm long, though the [dash-and-dot goatfish](/source/Dash-and-dot_goatfish), grows to 55 cm.[11] Goatfish are tireless [benthic](/source/Benthic) feeders, possess a pair of long [chemosensory](/source/Chemosensory) [barbels](/source/Barbel_(anatomy)) ("whiskers") protruding from their chins resembling a goat's beard. They use these to rifle through the sediments in search of a meal.[11] Like goats, they seek anything edible; [worms](/source/Worm), [crustaceans](/source/Crustacea), [molluscs](/source/Mollusc) and other small [invertebrates](/source/Invertebrate) are staples. Many species of goatfish are conspicuously coloured and have the ability to change their colouration depending on their current activity. By day, many form large inactive (non-feeding) schools: these aggregates may contain both conspecifics and heterospecifics. For example, the yellowfin goatfish school with [blue-striped snappers](/source/Lutjanus_kasmira). When they do that, the yellowfins changes its colouration to match that of the snapper. By night the schools disperse and individual goatfish head their separate ways to loot the sands. The diurnal [goldsaddle goatfish](/source/Goldsaddle_goatfish) changes from a lemon-yellow to a pale cream when feeding. Other nocturnal feeders will shadow the active goatfish, waiting patiently for overlooked morsels. Goatfish stay within the shallows, going no deeper than about 110 metres. Most species do not tolerate [brackish](/source/Brackish) water, so they do not enter [estuaries](/source/Estuary) or the mouths of [rivers](/source/River).

### Other nearshore fish

Other nearshore or shallow water fish live near the shore in depths of less than 10 metres. They occupy the areas over sandy or rocky bottoms, and can be associated with [seagrass meadows](/source/Seagrass_meadow) and [kelp forests](/source/Kelp_forest). They can be divided into [demersal fish](/source/Demersal_fish) and [pelagic fish](/source/Pelagic_fish). Demersal fish live on or near the sea floor, while pelagic fish live in the [water column](/source/Water_column) away the sea floor.

Examples of such shallow water demersal fish, found in both tropical and temperate waters around the world, are seahorses, triplefins, wrasse and flounder. As demersal fish, all these fish spend most of their time on or near the sea floor.

- [Flatfish](/source/Flatfish) are superbly adapted [groundfish](/source/Groundfish), found on muddy and sandy sea floors. In many species both eyes lie on one side of the head, one or the other migrating through and around the head during development. Some species face their "left" side upward, some face their "right" side upward, and others face either side upward. Some flatfish can camouflage themselves on the ocean floor.
- [Wrasse](/source/Wrasse) are a large family of mainly small fish, usually less than 20 centimetres (7.9 in) long. Most wrasse are loners that prefer habitats such as coral reefs and rocky shores. They live close to the substrate, eating small invertebrates and almost anything else that lurks on the bottom. Many are brightly coloured. They have thick lips and use their sharp teeth to pick small creatures off the rocks. Many smaller wrasses follow the feeding trails of larger fish, picking up invertebrates disturbed by their passing.[11]: 211
- [Triplefins](/source/Triplefin) are a [family](/source/Family_(taxonomy)) of fish. They are usually found around [coral reefs](/source/Coral_reefs) and rocks, usually in shallow, clear sunlit waters such as lagoons and seaward reefs. Triplefins have three [dorsal fins](/source/Dorsal_fin) (hence the name). They are small fish, usually less than six cm long. Brightly coloured, often for reasons of camouflage, they are nervous and retreat to rock crevices at any perceived threat.
- [Seahorses](/source/Seahorse) are a [genus](/source/Genus) of fish. They prefer sheltered harbours, estuaries and other shallow coastal waters, where they hunt tiny crustaceans. They bob around in sheltered areas such as [coral reefs](/source/Coral_reef), [mangrove stands](/source/Mangrove) and [seagrass meadows](/source/Seagrass_meadow) and [estuaries](/source/Estuaries). They are camouflaged with murky patterns that blend into kelp and sea grass backgrounds. During social moments or in unusual surroundings, seahorses can turn on bright colours.

Examples of shallow water pelagic fish, found in both tropical and temperate waters around the world, are grey mullet, sprats and garfish. As pelagic fish, all these fish spend most of their time living in the [water column](/source/Water_column) away the sea floor.

- The [grey mullet](/source/Mugil_cephalus) are medium size fish, typically about 50 cm (20 in) long. They are often caught with [seine nets](/source/Seine_net).
- The [garfish](/source/Garfish) is a long, slender fish, looking like a spear, which feeds on seagrass fragments, shrimps and crab larvae. In turn it is preyed on by larger fish and, since it is often near the surface, [cormorants](/source/Cormorant) and [gannets](/source/Gannet).

## Coastal pelagic fish

### Plankton feeding

See also: [Pelagic fish#Forage fish](/source/Pelagic_fish#Forage_fish) and [Shoaling and schooling](/source/Shoaling_and_schooling)

At the base of [food chains](/source/Food_chain) are the [primary producers](/source/Primary_producer). In the ocean these primary producers are mainly a type of [plankton](/source/Plankton), microscopic [phytoplankton](/source/Phytoplankton) which drift in the [water column](/source/Water_column). Phytoplankton need sunlight for [photosynthesis](/source/Photosynthesis) to power [carbon fixation](/source/Carbon_fixation), so they are mainly located in sunlit surface waters. Phytoplankton also need and rapidly use nutrients in the water column.[17] The phytoplankton are eaten by [zooplankton](/source/Zooplankton), which in turn are eaten by predatory zooplankton. [Filter feeders](/source/Filter_feeder) then eat the plankton and larger [predatory fish](/source/Predatory_fish) eat the filter feeders (see diagram at the right).[18]

Most filter-feeding pelagic fish found in coastal waters are small, silvery [forage fish](/source/Forage_fish). Forage fish include fishes of the family [Clupeidae](/source/Clupeidae) ([herrings](/source/Herring), [shad](/source/Shad), [sardines](/source/Sardine) and [pilchards](/source/Pilchard), [hilsa](/source/Hilsa), [menhaden](/source/Menhaden) and [sprats](/source/Sprat)), as well as [anchovies](/source/Anchovies), [capelin](/source/Capelin) and [halfbeaks](/source/Halfbeak). They use [schooling](/source/Shoaling_and_schooling) strategies to avoid predators, and different schools of forage fish often associate with each other in open coastal waters. Forage fish feed near the base of the food chain on [plankton](/source/Plankton) and [fry](/source/Fry_(biology)) (recently hatched fish), often by [filter feeding](/source/Filter_feeder). In turn, they are preyed on by larger predatory fish, [seabirds](/source/Seabird) and [marine mammals](/source/Marine_mammal).

Worldwide, there are five major coastal currents associated with upwelling areas: the [Canary Current](/source/Canary_Current) (off [Northwest Africa](/source/Northwest_Africa)), the [Benguela Current](/source/Benguela_Current) (off [southern Africa](/source/Southern_Africa)), the [California Current](/source/California_Current) (off [California](/source/California) and [Oregon](/source/Oregon)), the [Humboldt Current](/source/Humboldt_Current) (off [Peru](/source/Peru) and [Chile](/source/Chile)), and the [Somali Current](/source/Somali_Current) (off [Western India](/source/Western_India)). All of these currents support major fisheries.[18] Many forage fish are important commercial species, and the schools can be targeted by spotter planes. The fish are caught by [purse seiners](/source/Purse_seiner)—fishing boats that use nets to enclose the fish—and can be [overfished](/source/Overfished).

### Predatory

See also: [Pelagic fish#Predator fish](/source/Pelagic_fish#Predator_fish)

Predatory pelagic fishes found on continental shelves worldwide in both tropical and temperate waters include [porgies](/source/Porgies), [barracuda](/source/Barracuda), [amberjacks](/source/Amberjack) and [cutlassfishes](/source/Cutlassfish). They tend to be larger fish, and are carnivorous, feeding on the smaller, silvery [forage fish](/source/Forage_fish) that eat plankton (see section above). Some species also feed on crabs and other invertebrates, foraged from the sea floor.

- [Mackerel](/source/Mackerel) scom*
- [Porgies](/source/Porgies) sometimes called sea breams, are any of about 100 species belonging to the family Sparidae. Porgies usually have high backs and a single dorsal fin, like [snapper](/source/Australasian_snapper) or [grunt fishes](/source/Grunt_(fish)) (grunts are named for the sound they make grinding their teeth[11]: 184). They are bottom feeding pelagic fishes, with small mouths equipped with strong teeth adapted for handling small fishes and invertebrates with hard shells. Most do not exceed a size of about 30 cm (12 in), but some may grow to four times that length.[19] They often school, and will migrate between reefs. Larger fish enter estuaries and harbours.
- [Barracuda](/source/Barracuda) have long slender bodies typically about 50 cm (20 in) long. They have a wicked set of teeth and are ferocious predators. They feed on [crustaceans](/source/Crustaceans), [cephalopods](/source/Cephalopods) and small fish like [anchovy](/source/Anchovy) and [pilchard](/source/Pilchard). Barracouta often hunt in schools near the bottom or midwater, and sometimes even near the surface at night.

- [Cutlassfishes](/source/Cutlassfish) are a group of about 40 species belonging to the family [Trichiuridae](/source/Trichiuridae). They are ocean fish which regularly stray into coastal waters around the world. Fish of this family are long, slender, and generally steely blue or silver in colour, giving rise to their name. They have reduced or absent [pelvic](/source/Pelvic_fin) and [caudal fins](/source/Caudal_fin), giving them an [eel](/source/Eel)-like appearance, and large fang-like teeth.[11]: 190
- [Jacks](/source/Carangidae), [amberjacks](/source/Amberjack), [pompanos](/source/Pompano), [horse mackerel](/source/Horse_mackerel), [scads](/source/Carangidae), [leatherjackets](/source/Leatherjacket_fish) and [trevally](/source/Trevally) are fish of the family *[Carangidae](/source/Carangidae)*. Found in most coastal waters, they are fast predatory fishes that hunt in the waters above [reefs](/source/Reef) and in the open sea; some dig in the sea floor for invertebrates (some can also filter feed, such as the [white trevally](/source/White_trevally)). The largest fish in the family, the [giant trevally](/source/Giant_trevally), grows up to 1.7 m in length; most fish in the family reach a maximum length of 25–100 cm. The family contains many important commercial and game fish, notably the [Pacific jack mackerel](/source/Pacific_jack_mackerel) and the other jack mackerels in the genus *[Trachurus](/source/Trachurus)*. The [type species](/source/Type_species) of this genus is the [Atlantic horse mackerel](/source/Atlantic_horse_mackerel). Jack mackerels are an important inshore commercial species. - [Amberjacks](/source/Amberjack) are a group of nine species belonging to the genus *Seriola* within the family Carangidae. Mainly open water fish, they can follow small [forage fish](/source/Forage_fish) into estuaries and enclosed waters, where they will also hunt for crustaceans. Amberjacks are fast swimming and aggressive predators that often hunt in schools around offshore reefs. The [yellowtail amberjack](/source/Yellowtail_amberjack) can reach 1.8 m in length and weigh 60 kilograms.

## Demersal pelagic fish

Main article: [Demersal fish](/source/Demersal_fish)

Fish that live on or in close association with the sea floor are called [demersal fish](/source/Demersal_fish). This section discusses the coastal demersal fish that live on the continental shelf, but are living further from the coast and in deeper water than the nearshore fish discussed above.

Demersal fish are [white fish](/source/Whitefish_(fisheries_term)). Unlike [oily fish](/source/Oily_fish), white fish contain [oils](/source/Fish_oil) only in their [liver](/source/Liver), rather than in the [gut](/source/Gut_(zoology)), and can therefore be gutted as soon as they are caught, on board the ship. White fish has dry and white flesh. They can be divided into [benthopelagic fish](/source/Benthopelagic_fish) (mostly "round" fish) which live *near* the sea bed, such as [cod](/source/Cod), and [benthic fish](/source/Benthic_fish) ([flatfish](/source/Flatfish)) such as [plaice](/source/Plaice) which live *on* the sea bed. Benthic fish tend to be "flat", so they can lie on the bottom.

- [Cod](/source/Cod)-like fishes are a number of round benthopelagic species belonging to the order [Gadiformes](/source/Gadiformes), such as [Atlantic](/source/Atlantic_cod) and [Pacific cod](/source/Pacific_cod), [morid cod](/source/Morid_cod), [haddock](/source/Haddock) and [pollock](/source/Pollock), including the highly commercial [Alaska pollock](/source/Alaska_pollock). Cod-like fishes are often found in large schools over sandy or muddy bottoms. They have a barbel (fleshy filament) on their lower jaw which they use to detect prey buried in the sand or mud. Some migrate to warm water in winter to spawn.
- [John Dory](/source/John_Dory) are fishes of the genus *Zeus*. They have a widespread distribution and are typically found near the seabed in depths from 5 meters (16 feet). The John Dory grows to a maximum length of 65 cm (2.13 ft). Although it is a benthopelagic fish, its body is flat and it can hardly be seen from the front because it is so thin. It is a poor swimmer with long spines on the dorsal fin. It has a large dark [eyespot](/source/Eyespot_(mimicry)) on the side of its body which is used to confuse prey, which are scooped up in its big mouth.[20] Large eyes at the front of the head provide it with bifocal vision and depth perception, which are important for predators. The John Dory usually gets its food by stalking it then shooting out a tube in its mouth to capture its prey. It eats forage fish, and occasionally [squid](/source/Squid) and [cuttlefish](/source/Cuttlefish). In turn, they are preyed on by sharks, like the [dusky shark](/source/Dusky_shark), and other large bony fish. They are normally solitary.
- [Turbot](/source/Turbot) and [brill](/source/Brill_(fish)) are benthic flatfish, resembling flounder and sole, but found in deeper offshore waters on the continental shelf.[21] They are brownish-green, with dark blotches on the turbot and mottling on the brill. They are fished by coastal trawlers.

- [Mail-cheeked fishes](/source/Scorpaeniformes) belong to a group of about 30 species in the order Scorpaeniformes. Mail-cheeked fishes are named after a plate of bone that runs across each cheek. They are widespread in all the oceans of the world. Mail-cheeked fishes are [carnivorous](/source/Carnivore), mostly feeding on crustaceans, such as crabs and shrimp, and on smaller fish. Most species live on the sea bottom in relatively shallow waters, although species are known from mid and deep water, from the mid-water, and even from fresh water. They typically have spiny heads, and rounded [pectoral](/source/Pectoral_fin) and [caudal fins](/source/Caudal_fin). Most species are less than 30 centimetres (12 in) in length, but the full size range of the order varies from the [velvetfishes](/source/Velvetfish), which can be just 2 centimetres (0.79 in) long as adults, to the [Lingcod](/source/Lingcod), which can reach 150 centimetres (4.9 ft) in length.[11] - [Red gurnard](/source/Chelidonichthys_kumu) are mail-cheeked fish. They use their large pectoral fins to rest on the bottom and to detect food.

[Stargazers](/source/Stargazer_(fish)) are about 50 species of fishes, belonging to the family Uranoscopidae, and found worldwide in shallow waters. Stargazers are [venomous](/source/Venom_(poison)); they have two large [poison](/source/Poison) spines situated behind the [opercle](/source/Opercle) and above the [pectoral fins](/source/Pectoral_fin). They can also deliver [electric shocks](/source/Electric_shock). They are [ambush predators](/source/Ambush_predator) with eyes on top of their heads (thus the name). Stargazers also have a large upward-facing mouth in a large head. They bury themselves in sand with only their eyes showing, and leap upwards to ambush fish and invertebrates overhead. Some species have a worm-shaped lure growing out of the floor of the mouth, which they wiggle to attract prey's attention. Lengths range from 18 [cm](/source/Centimetre) up to 90 cm, for the [giant stargazer](/source/Giant_stargazer) *Kathetostoma giganteum*. Stargazers are a delicacy in some cultures. The venom is destroyed when it is cooked, and stargazers are sold in some [fish markets](/source/Fish_market) with their electric organ removed. They have been called "the meanest things in creation" and the "worst pet on earth".[22][23]

- [Sandperches](/source/Sandperch) are a family, Pinguipedidae, containing 63 species of fishes in the order [Perciformes](/source/Perciformes). They are [benthic](/source/Benthic) carnivores, feeding on small fish and invertebrates. Examples are the [redbanded weever](/source/Redbanded_weever), [yellow weaver](/source/Yellow_weaver_(fish)) and [blue cod](/source/Blue_cod). They are often caught in pots like crayfish.
- [Medusa fishes](/source/Medusa_fish) are a family Centrolophidae of 31 species of [perciform](/source/Perciform) fishes. They are found in temperate and tropical waters throughout the world, usually feeding on fish, crustaceans and small squid near rough sea floors on continental shelf and slope. Examples are [barrelfish](/source/Hyperoglyphe), [southern driftfish](/source/Southern_driftfish), [imperial blackfish](/source/Imperial_blackfish), the [Japanese](/source/Japanese_butterfish) and [pelagic butterfish](/source/Pelagic_butterfish), the [New Zealand](/source/New_Zealand_ruffe) and [Tasmanian ruffe](/source/Tasmanian_ruffe), and the [common](/source/Common_warehou), [silver](/source/Silver_warehou) and [white warehou](/source/White_warehou). The young of some species associate with [jellyfish](/source/Jellyfish), which provides them with protection from predators and opportunities to scavenge the remains of the jellyfish's meals. The young of other species associate with large masses of floating kelp.

- [Grouper](/source/Grouper) are fish belonging to a number of [genera](/source/Genus) in the subfamily Epinephelinae of the family [Serranidae](/source/Serranidae), in the order Perciformes. Species of grouper include the [black](/source/Black_grouper), [comet](/source/Comet_grouper), [gag](/source/Gag_grouper), [giant](/source/Giant_grouper), [Goliath](/source/Atlantic_goliath_grouper), [Nassau](/source/Nassau_grouper), [saddletail](/source/Saddletail_grouper), [tiger](/source/Tiger_grouper), [Warsaw](/source/Warsaw_grouper), [white](/source/White_grouper) and [yellowfin grouper](/source/Yellowfin_grouper). Typical lengths are 80–120 centimetres. They inhabit depths from reefs near the surface down to over 400 metres. They feed on just about any moving animal they encounter. Groper are important inshore commercial fish, usually caught with [gill nets](/source/Gill_net) (in earlier times [longlines](/source/Longline_fishing) were used).
- [Wreckfish](/source/Wreckfish) are a family Polyprionidae of perciform fishes, found on the floor of the continental shelf and slope where they inhabit caves and shipwrecks (thus their common name). The [Atlantic wreckfish](/source/Atlantic_wreckfish) is at depths between 40 and 600 m (130 and 1,970 ft). They are largely a solitary fish, though juveniles school below floating objects. Their diet includes large ocean cephalopods, crustaceans, and other bottom-dwelling fishes.

## See also

- [Coral reef fish](/source/Coral_reef_fish)
- [Demersal fish](/source/Demersal_fish)
- [Forage fish](/source/Forage_fish)
- [Marine habitats](/source/Marine_habitats)
- [Moorish idol](/source/Moorish_idol)
- [Monkfish](/source/Monkfish)
- [NaGISA](/source/NaGISA)
- [Pelagic fish](/source/Pelagic_fish)
- [Shoaling and schooling](/source/Shoaling_and_schooling)
- [Weever](/source/Weever)

## Notes

1. Moyle and Cech, 2004, page 585

1. Moyle and Cech, 2004, page 572

1. [World](https://web.archive.org/web/20260116020830/https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/world) The World Factbook, CIA. Retrieved 26 February 2010.

1. [Continental shelf areas](http://earthtrends.wri.org/text/coastal-marine/variable-62.html) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20081202232634/http://earthtrends.wri.org/text/coastal-marine/variable-62.html) December 2, 2008 at the Wayback Machine *Earth trends*. Retrieved 25 February 2010.

1. [Shanny (common blenny)](https://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/blueplanet/factfiles/fish/shanny_bg.shtml) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20120704230944/http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/blueplanet/factfiles/fish/shanny_bg.shtml) 2012-07-04 at the Wayback Machine *BBC*. Updated July 2005.

1. Pritchard, D. W. (1967) *What is an estuary: physical viewpoint*. p. 3–5 *in:* G. H. Lauf (ed.) *Estuaries*, A.A.A.S. Publ. No. 83, Washington, D.C.

1. McLusky, D.S. and Elliott, M. (2004) "The Estuarine Ecosystem: ecology, threats and management." New York: Oxford University Press Inc. ISBN 0-19-852508-7

1. Moyle and Cech, 2003, p. 50.

1. Greenpeace Book of Coral Reefs

1. Johnson, G.D. & Gill, A.C. (1998). *Encyclopedia of Fishes*. Paxton, J.R. & Eschmeyer, W.N. (eds.). San Diego: Academic Press. ISBN 0-12-547665-5.

1. Allen, G.R. (1975). *Damselfishes of the South Seas*. Neptune City, NJ: T.F.H. Publications. ISBN 978-0-87666-034-8.

1. Nelson, J.S. (2006). *Fishes of the World*. Hoboken: John Wiley and Sons. ISBN 978-0-471-25031-9.

1. Jenkins, A.P. & G.R. Allen (2002). "*Neopomacentrus aquadulcis*, a new species of damselfish (Pomacentridae) from eastern Papua New Guinea". *Records of the Western Australian Museum*. **20**: 379–382.

1. Pyle, R.L.; J.L. Earle; & B.D. Greene (2008). ["Five new species of the damselfish genus *Chromis* (Perciformes: Labroidei: Pomacentridae) from deep coral reefs in the tropical western Pacific"](http://plazi.org:8080/dspace/bitstream/10199/15417/6/zt01671p031.pdf). *Zootaxa*. **1671**: 3–31. [doi:10.11646/zootaxa.1671.1.2](https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.1671.1.2). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20110721153207/http://plazi.org:8080/dspace/bitstream/10199/15417/6/zt01671p031.pdf) 2011-07-21 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 2010-03-01.

1. Anderson, G (2003) [Coral Reef Formation](http://www.marinebio.net/marinescience/04benthon/crform.htm) *Marine Science*.

1. Mann, K.H., Lazier, J.R.N. (2006) *Dynamics of Marine Ecosystems: Biological-Physical Interactions in the Oceans*. Oxford: Blackwell Publishing Ltd. ISBN 1-4051-1118-6

1. [Porgy](http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/470604/porgy) *Encyclopædia Britannica.* Retrieved February 23, 2010.

1. ["John dory"](http://www.teara.govt.nz/en/coastal-fish/5/1)

1. Whiteman, Kate (2000). *The world encyclopedia of Fish and Shellfishs*. Hermes House. p. 256. ISBN 1-84309-666-8.

1. Grady, Denise [Venom Runs Thick in Fish Families, Researchers Learn](https://www.nytimes.com/2006/08/22/science/22fish.html?ei=5094&en=3d2f666379306107&hp=&ex=1156219200&partner=homepage&pagewanted=print) *[The New York Times](/source/The_New_York_Times)* 22 August 2006.

## References

- Elliott, Michael and Hemingway, Krystal (2002) [*Fishes in estuaries*](https://books.google.com/books?id=5baJMjXEfL8C&q=%22Fishes+in+estuaries%22) John Wiley & Sons. ISBN 978-0-632-05733-7.
- Humann, Paul and DeLoach, Ned (2008) [*Coastal Fish Identification: California to Alaska*](https://books.google.com/books?id=tb6PPwAACAAJ&q=%22Coastal+Fish+Identification:+California+To+Alaska%22) New World Publications Incorporated. ISBN 9781878348432.
- Moyle, PB and Cech, JJ (2004) [*Fishes, An Introduction to Ichthyology*](https://books.google.com/books?id=sZYWAQAAIAAJ&q=%22Fishes,+An+Introduction+to+Ichthyology%22) 5th Ed, Benjamin Cummings. ISBN 978-0-13-100847-2
- Hinrichsen D (1999) [*Coastal Waters of the World: Trends, Threats, and Strategies*](https://books.google.com/books?id=70NsJkGMPiwC&q=%22coastal+waters%22+definition) Island Press. ISBN 978-1-55963-383-3
- Mann KH (2000) [*Ecology of coastal waters: with implications for management*](https://books.google.com/books?id=y4OIojDxtzsC&q=%22coastal+waters%22+definition) (Vol 8 of *Studies in ecology*) Wiley-Blackwell. ISBN 9780865425507

## External links

- Walrond, Carl. ["Coastal fish"](http://www.teara.govt.nz/en/coastal-fish) – *[Te Ara: The Encyclopedia of New Zealand](/source/Te_Ara:_The_Encyclopedia_of_New_Zealand)* (updated 23 November 2009)
- [Marine Biology 2: Water layering and water movements](https://web.archive.org/web/20090527130815/http://www.lifesciences.napier.ac.uk/teaching/MB/MB2_02.html#TOP)
- [Notes on Estuarine Fish Reproduction](https://web.archive.org/web/20110106041705/http://www.sos.bangor.ac.uk/marine/mb/O2b08/Estuarine_fish.html). Retrieved 20 February 2010.
- [Estuarine Fish Kills in Morth Carolina](https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:CqOrPbUWGRMJ:h2o.ehnr.state.nc.us/esb/Fishkill/killfact830.pdf+%22estuarine+fish%22&hl=en&gl=nz&pid=bl&srcid=ADGEESjfB-1HV9eEUeteSRxKgKnZmcqe_ktx-RM6yElapFX73e0hhFh2KVFSKScevuq5RM99WCP3wJRBQEb6L3xIEz2oi_0srdBh5xsNSPc3OGtfm8PAMQivR7U-NTEw-uWZ35OmrijQ&*sig=AHIEtbRoTvOX0DFFP3ojxaRHt5WZmN40WQ). Retrieved 20 February 2010.
- [Inshore marine fish](http://www.glaucus.org.uk/Fishy.htm)

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Adapted from the Wikipedia article [Coastal fish](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coastal_fish) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coastal_fish?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.