(Pneumatophorus japonicus), closely resembles the English mackerel. It is shining bluish-green with meandering and chevron-shaped markings in darker colour. It is a surface fish usually found in schools and is not uncommon from Cook Strait northwards. It grows to about 18 in. in length.

The southern mackerel generally is not very popular as a food fish, but is often used for bait. When freshly caught and cooked, however, it is very palatable and is esteemed by many of the Pacific Islanders resident in the North Island.

by Arthur William Baden Powell, Assistant Director, Auckland Institute and Museum.