Poissonpilote

Poissonpilote, known in English as the pilot fish, refers to Naucrates ductor, a species of ray-finned fish in the family Naucratidae. It is distributed across tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide and is commonly found near coral reefs, on continental shelves, and in the open sea, often in the company of larger marine animals.

The fish has a slender, laterally compressed body with a silvery to gray coloration and a distinctive pattern of dark vertical bars along the sides. Adults typically reach about 40 to 60 cm in length. Juveniles may be observed in schools or singly, sometimes approaching floating objects or drifting debris.

A notable characteristic is its association with larger hosts, such as sharks, rays, and tuna. Pilot fish frequently swim close to or just ahead of such hosts, feeding on parasites, small invertebrates, and scraps from the host’s meals. This behavior is commonly described as commensal, though some accounts suggest the potential for mutual benefit to the host through parasite removal.

Diet consists of small fishes, crustaceans, and other invertebrates, as well as detritus and leftovers from the host’s prey. Reproduction is not extensively documented in the wild, but the species is generally considered to reproduce in a pelagic environment, with eggs and larvae developed in open water.

Etymology and usage: the name poisson pilote stems from historical belief that the fish guided ships or pilots. In everyday usage, poissonpilote or poisson pilote refers to Naucrates ductor, with regional naming variations in French-speaking regions.