Jacks

Bigeye trevally (Caranx sexfasciatus)

The Bigeye trevally (Caranx sexfasciatus) belongs to the family Carangidae (jacks) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It is a carnivore and usually seen in schools. It reaches about 60 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. It is not dangerous to divers.

Bigeye trevally (Caranx sexfasciatus), a Red Sea fish of the jacks family
Photo: iNaturalist / Wikimedia Commons

Quick facts

Scientific nameCaranx sexfasciatus
FamilyJacks (Carangidae)
Common name (IT)Carango dai sei raggi
Common name (EN)Bigeye trevally
Maximum size60 cm
Depth1–50 m
DistributionRed Sea and Indo-Pacific
IUCN statusLC — Least Concern

Description

Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.

Where it lives

Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.

  • Red Sea
  • Indo-Pacific

Frequently asked questions

What family does the Bigeye trevally belong to?
The Bigeye trevally (Caranx sexfasciatus) belongs to the family Carangidae (jacks).
Is the Bigeye trevally dangerous?
It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
Is the Bigeye trevally endemic to the Red Sea?
No — it occurs in the Red Sea but its range extends across the Indo-Pacific.
How big does the Bigeye trevally get?
It reaches a maximum length of about 60 cm.

Explore the Bigeye trevally in 3D in the interactive atlas →