Latin name

Thyrsitoides marleyi

Other name

Black snoek

Identification

It is the only member of the genus Thyrsitoides, making the genus monotypic.

The black snake mackerel has 34 vertebrae. Two lateral lines originating above the upper corner of the gill aperture and branching below or slightly behind the 4th dorsal fin, the upper line running along the base of the first dorsal fin and terminating below, approximately at the end of the first dorsal fin, the lower line curving sharply backwards from the bifurcation and running medially from the sides to the base of the middle ray of the caudal fin. 

Features of fish fins

Dorsal spines (total): 17 - 19; Dorsal soft rays (total): 16 - 17; Anal spines: 1; Anal soft rays: 16 - 17.

Fish colouring

Body colour dark brown with slight metallic highlights, sometimes slightly lighter on the belly. Dorsal fin webs with black markings.

Distribution

Widespread in the Indo-West Pacific: from the Red Sea to South Africa and New Caledonia, northwards to Japan. Recently reported from Tonga.

Habitat

A deep-sea benthopelagic species. Occupies shallow waters to depths of at least 400m (1,300ft), apparently preferring the slopes of seamounts and ridges.

Size

This species reaches a total length of 2m, although most are around 1m. 

Behavior

Black snake mackerel are known to make long vertical migrations at night to near-surface waters. 

Food and feeding habits

Feeds on a variety of mesopelagic fish, squid and crustaceans.

Reproduction

The breeding biology of the black snake mackerel is not yet understood.

Fishing

This species is of minor importance to the local commercial fishery.

Relationship with a person

Harmless.