Rainbow Runner

Rainbow Runner

Elagatis bipinnulata

Least Concern
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DESCRIPTION

The Rainbow Runner, Elagatis bipinnulata, is a fast-swimming pelagic fish recognized by its elongated, streamlined body and distinctive olive-blue to green upper body with two narrow, light blue stripes along its sides. It inhabits tropical and subtropical waters worldwide, often found in large schools near the surface over reefs, in coastal areas, and far offshore. Primarily a carnivore, its diet consists of small fish, cephalopods, and a variety of planktonic crustaceans.

Max Length 180 cm
Max Weight 46.2 kg
Lifespan Up to 6 years
Habitat Coastal zone, open water, and coral reef
Depth Range 0 - 164 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Diurnal
Social Behavior Schooling

Destinations to spot Rainbow Runner

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely
Range

Where Rainbow Runner has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Rainbow Runner

Where can you see the Rainbow Runner?

The Rainbow Runner can be seen at 18 dive destinations in 8 countries. The best spots include Addu Atoll (Maldives), Ari Atoll (Maldives), Baa Atoll (Maldives), Brothers Islands (Egypt), and Elphinstone Reef (Egypt).

What is the best time to see the Rainbow Runner?

The Rainbow Runner can be seen all year round at Fuvahmulah, Gili Islands, Ningaloo reef, Socorro Islands, and South Ari Atoll.

Where can you see the Rainbow Runner in Maldives?

In Maldives, you can see the Rainbow Runner at Addu Atoll, Ari Atoll, Baa Atoll, Fuvahmulah, North Male Atoll, and South Ari Atoll.

Where can you see the Rainbow Runner in Belize?

In Belize, you can see the Rainbow Runner at Glovers Reef, Lighthouse Reef Atoll, and Turneffe Atoll.

Where can you see the Rainbow Runner in Egypt?

In Egypt, you can see the Rainbow Runner at Brothers Islands and Elphinstone Reef.

How big does the Rainbow Runner get?

The Rainbow Runner can reach up to 180 cm in length and 46.2 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Rainbow Runner live in?

The Rainbow Runner is found in these habitats: coastal zone, open water, and coral reef.

How deep does the Rainbow Runner live?

The Rainbow Runner lives from the surface down to 164 m.

What does the Rainbow Runner eat?

Feeds on other animals, from fish to crustaceans or molluscs depending on the species.

When is the Rainbow Runner most active?

Active during daylight hours. Morning and midday dives are your best chance to see it moving and feeding.

How long does the Rainbow Runner live?

The Rainbow Runner lives up to 6 years.

What is the conservation status of the Rainbow Runner?

The Rainbow Runner is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Rainbow Runner. Spotted something that looks off?

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