The torpedo scad (Megalaspis cordyla), commonly known as the hardtail scad or finny scad, is a sleek, fast-swimming fish belonging to the jack family, Carangidae, which also includes trevallies and pompanos. This species is widely distributed throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific region, extending from the coastal waters of South Africa and the Red Sea eastward to Tonga, and from southern Japan down to northern Australia. Its abundance and adaptability make it an important component of many coastal marine ecosystems.
The torpedo scad is easily recognized by its elongated, metallic-blue body and deeply forked tail, built for speed and endurance. It features long, sickle-shaped pectoral fins and a distinct black spot on the operculum, or gill cover. Along its lateral line are large scutes—hard, bony scales—that help protect it from predators and reduce drag while swimming. Typically found in coastal and offshore waters at depths of 20 to 100 meters, this species often congregates around reefs, islands, and open-water areas where food is abundant.
Highly social in nature, torpedo scads are schooling fish that travel in large, tightly coordinated groups near the surface. Their speed and agility allow them to chase down prey such as small fish, crustaceans, and plankton. In turn, they serve as prey for larger predators including tunas, barracudas, and marine mammals, playing a key role in the oceanic food chain.
Economically, the torpedo scad holds significant value across the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia, where it is commonly caught using purse seines, drift nets, and other traditional fishing methods. While its coarse flesh makes it less desirable as a table fish compared to species like mackerel or tuna, it remains an important source of protein for coastal communities. It is also widely used in the production of fishmeal and as bait in larger fisheries.
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the torpedo scad is classified as a species of Least Concern, reflecting its wide distribution and stable populations. Nonetheless, sustainable fishing practices remain important to ensure that this resilient yet vital species continues to thrive in the world’s tropical seas.Torpedo Scad (Megalaspis cordyla): An Important Fish of Tropical Seas
