Rainbow runner

Rainbow runner 3

Elagatis bipinnulata

Rainbow runner on fly

Rainbow Runner (Elagatis bipinnulata), also known as the rainbow yellowtail, Spanish jack, or Hawaiian salmon, is a species of pelagic fish in the family Carangidae. It is found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world, including the Atlantic Ocean, Pacific Ocean, and Indian Ocean. The rainbow runner is known for its striking appearance, characterized by its elongated body, vibrant blue and green colors, and a distinctive horizontal stripe running along its side.

Description

The Rainbow Runner can reach a length of up to 1.8 meters (6 feet), but the average size is usually around 1 meter (3 feet). It has a slender, torpedo-shaped body that is built for speed, with two dorsal fins and a series of finlets running from the second dorsal fin to the tail. The body is predominantly blue or green, with a silvery underside and a bright yellow stripe that runs from the eye to the tail, giving it its common name.

Habitat and Distribution

Rainbow Runners inhabit open ocean environments, often found near reefs, floating debris, or other structures that provide shelter and feeding opportunities. They are highly migratory and can be found in warm oceanic waters worldwide. Their distribution spans from the tropical and subtropical zones of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.

Diet

The diet of the Rainbow Runner primarily consists of small fish, squid, and crustaceans. They are known to form schools and can often be seen hunting in groups, using their speed and agility to catch their prey.

Reproduction

Little is known about the reproduction of Rainbow Runners. They are believed to spawn in open water, with females releasing thousands of eggs that are then fertilized externally. The larvae are pelagic, drifting with ocean currents until they mature.

Fishing and Culinary Use

Rainbow Runners are targeted by both commercial and recreational fishermen. They are prized for their fight on the line and are considered excellent table fare, with a firm, white flesh that is suitable for various culinary preparations. In some regions, they are also caught for use in aquaculture.

Conservation

Currently, there are no major conservation concerns for the Rainbow Runner, as they are widespread and abundant in most of their range. However, like many pelagic species, they are susceptible to overfishing and the impacts of climate change on oceanic environments.

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