Species profile
Ulua
Gnathanodon speciosus
Identify Ulua (Gnathanodon speciosus) from a photo: try it free in your browser, or get unlimited IDs, no sign-up, with the CatchRules app. Plus current fishing rules across 1 jurisdiction.
At a glance
Ulua (Gnathanodon speciosus) is an IUCN Least Concern bony-fish species with specific harvest rules tracked in 1 of 66 jurisdictions covered by CatchRules.
Confirmed by 7 research-grade iNaturalist observations, concentrated in Hawaii.
Notable details
- Juveniles display bold yellow and black stripes that fade as they mature into silver-gold adults.
- Young golden trevally often shadow large animals like sharks, rays, and even snorkelers.
- Adults can reach 120 cm and weigh up to 33 pounds (15 kg).
- Found throughout the Indo-Pacific, including Hawaiian waters.
- A highly prized catch in Hawaii, where large ulua are considered a trophy fish.
Where Ulua are seen
Jurisdictions with rules for Ulua
Background
The golden trevally, Gnathanodon speciosus (also known as the golden kingfish, banded trevally and king trevally), is a species of large marine fish classified in the jack and horse mackerel family Carangidae, and the only member of the genus Gnathanodon. The golden trevally is widely distributed throughout the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, ranging from South…
Background excerpt adapted from Wikipedia's Ulua article (CC BY-SA). Visit Wikipedia for the full entry.
Other bony fish on CatchRules
Frequently asked questions
What is Ulua?
Ulua (Gnathanodon speciosus) is an IUCN Least Concern bony-fish species with specific harvest rules tracked in 1 of 66 jurisdictions covered by CatchRules.
What is the scientific name for Ulua?
Ulua is Gnathanodon speciosus.
Is Ulua regulated for fishing?
Yes — Ulua has fishing regulations in 1 U.S. state and/or Canadian province tracked by CatchRules. See the "Jurisdictions with rules" section above for the binding-source links.
How can I identify Ulua?
Take a photo with the free CatchRules app for iPhone or Android — on-device identification recognizes Ulua along with ~1,500 other species. No sign-up, unlimited use.
Photo credit: iNaturalist / Wikipedia. Identification reference only — verify regulations with the issuing wildlife agency before retaining a catch.