Giant trevally

Photo: Allan Lugg · CC BY-NC

The largest of the trevally family, reaching over 1.7 metres and 80 kg, giant trevally (GT) are aggressive, highly intelligent reef predators known for cooperative hunting behaviour and the ability to launch out of the water to catch birds. Encountered singly or in small groups near reef passes and current-exposed structures, they actively pursue and herd prey fish. GTs are highly aware of divers and often use them as cover to ambush fish disturbed by human movement — a well-documented hunting adaptation. Prized game fish; populations have declined on heavily fished reefs.