Yellowtail Fusilier
Caesio cuning
Yellowtail Fusilier (Caesio cuning) is a reef-associated schooling fusilier of the Indo-Pacific, often gathering in midwater above outer reefs and drop-offs. It feeds on zooplankton and is sometimes taken by spearfishers or by small baits; it is not a major gamefish in most areas.
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Identification points
- Bright yellow caudal fin and yellow posterior body tint
- Slender fusilier shape with deeply forked tail
- Bluish to pinkish-silver body with narrow yellow stripes and a pointed snout
Habitat
Outer reef slopes, lagoon and channel edges, drop-offs, and current-swept coral reefs; commonly forms midwater schools above reef structure in clear tropical saltwater.
Bait notes
Small bits of shrimp, squid, or fish flesh can work; tiny jigs, micro-soft plastics, and small flashy lures may draw strikes when schools are feeding. It is usually best targeted incidentally rather than as a primary sportfish.
Behavior
A fast, open-water planktivore that schools tightly, often moving in the water column with current and feeding on drifting zooplankton, especially around reef edges and bait concentrations.
Caution
Like many reef fish, it can carry ciguatera risk in some tropical locations; avoid eating large reef-dwelling individuals from known risk areas. Handle carefully around sharp dorsal spines and local harvest rules.
Fishing notes
Use light tackle and small hooks, and fish midwater over reefs or along current seams. Cast ahead of moving schools and retrieve steadily; chumming may keep fish near the boat where legal.