Gorgeous Swallowtail

The Gorgeous Swallowtail (Meganthias natalensis) is a relatively small benthopelagic fish, growing up to 60 cm and weighing up to 2 kg. Though not the largest in the ocean, this fish is a valuable trophy for any angler. Found in the Indo-Pacific and the eastern Atlantic, this species tends to stay near the seabed, preferring rocky areas and steep slopes of underwater reefs. It’s most commonly caught at depths between 80 and 220 m. While larger individuals are often solitary, smaller Swallowtails tend to form groups. Feeding near coral reefs, their diet includes crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish. It often shares its habitat with Groupers, Ruby Snappers, and Sickle Pomfret. This adaptable fish is active under all weather conditions, biting both day and night.