Red Pomfret
The red pomfret (Pristipomoides auricilla) is a species of marine ray-finned fish, a snapper belonging to the family Lutjanidae. It is found in tropical parts of the Indo-Pacific region. The red pomfret has a moderately compressed body which has a depth that is around a third to a half of its standard length. The snout is blunt with the pre-orbital area being deeply concave. There is a well-developed mid-lateral stripe that extends from behind the eye to below the soft-rayed part of the dorsal fin. This species attains a maximum total length of 70 cm, although fish around 30 cm are more common. The juveniles have a dark brown back and upper flanks, with pale wavy lines, and the belly is white.
This species is found in the tropical parts of the Indo-Pacific region. It occurs from off East Africa, including the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, across to southern Japan and down to northern Australia. It has also been recorded from the central and eastern Pacific Oceans. In Australian waters, it is found off north-western Western Australia, around the Northern Territory, and of Queensland as far south as Moreton Bay. This species inhabits areas of reefs and rocky shores at depths between 2 and 40 m.
The red pomfret is a predator of small fishes and squid. It is an important food fish in many parts of its range and is taken by both commercial and recreational fisheries. In some areas, it is considered to be a delicacy. This species can also be found in the aquarium trade.
The red pomfret is a relatively long-lived fish, with a lifespan of up to 15 years. This species is oviparous, with the eggs being pelagic and demersal. The larvae are planktonic. This species grows quickly, with males reaching maturity at a length of around 30 cm and females at a length of around 35 cm.
The red pomfret is an important food fish in many parts of its range and is taken by both commercial and recreational fisheries. In some areas, it is considered to be a delicacy. This species can also be found in the aquarium trade.
Global red pomfret production
Red pomfret fish are widely distributed in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. They are an important commercial fish species and are highly prized in many Asian cultures. Red pomfret typically grow to a length of around 30 cm (12 in) but can reach up to 50 cm (20 in). The body is deep and compressed, with a small head and large eyes. The fins are red, as is the tail, which has a deeply forked shape.
Red pomfret are carnivorous fish that feed on smaller fishes, crustaceans, and squid. They are typically found at depths of between 50 and 200 m (160 and 660 ft). Spawning takes place in the open water, with eggs and larvae being carried by currents. Red pomfret reach maturity at around 2 years of age.
Global production of red pomfret is thought to be in the region of 300,000-400,000 tonnes per year. The majority of fish are caught in the wild, although there is a small but growing aquaculture industry in some countries. Red pomfret are popular food fish and are widely traded within Asia. They are often used in Chinese cuisine, where they are considered to be a delicacy.