What is lookdown fish?

Lookdown fish, also known as Selene vomer, are a unique species of fish found in the western Atlantic Ocean, from Massachusetts to Brazil. They are easily recognizable by their distinctive laterally compressed bodies, which resemble a disc or oval shape.

Lookdown fish are silver in color with a prominent black spot on their dorsal fin. They have small mouths and sharp teeth, which they use to feed on small fish, shrimp, and crustaceans.

These fish are known for their unique swimming behavior, in which they swim close to the water's surface and appear to tilt their bodies downward, giving them their name "lookdown fish".

Lookdown fish can grow up to 18 inches in length and are usually found in schools in shallow coastal waters, around reefs, and in estuaries.

Despite their relatively common presence in the western Atlantic Ocean, lookdown fish are not often targeted by commercial fisheries, and are more commonly caught by recreational anglers. They are also popular as aquarium fish due to their unique appearance and behavior.