Atlantic spadefish

fish

Also known as: Chaetodipterus faber

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July 22, 2026

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The Atlantic spadefish (Chaetodipterus faber) is a marine fish found in the western Atlantic, from New England to Brazil. These fish are characterized by their deep bodies and laterally compressed shape, typically displaying five or six vertical black bands on a silvery background, though these bars may fade in adults.1

Spadefish primarily consume marine invertebrates, with a diet rich in crustaceans and comb jellies. They belong to the family Ephippidae, which includes about 17 species of marine fish found in tropical and temperate waters. The term "spadefish" was first used in 1704.12

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spadefish
The Atlantic spadefish (Chaetodipterus faber) is a western Atlantic species that ranges from New England to Brazil. It feeds primarily on marine invertebrates, particularly crustaceans and ctenophores (comb jellies).
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The Atlantic spadefish (Chaetodipterus faber) is a western Atlantic species that ranges from New England to Brazil. It feeds primarily on marine invertebrates, particularly crustaceans and ctenophores (comb jellies).
Read More