Fisheries Infosite

Trevally Challenger (TRE7)
Maori name
Scientific name
Pseudocaranx georgianus

Physical characteristics

Trevally are light blue-green on top and silvery-white on the underside with a yellowish sheen, especially near the tail. As juveniles they have up to 9 grey bands. They can grow to a maximum length of 80 cm.

Life cycle

Trevally can reach ages of over 40 years. They have a moderate growth rate until reaching maturity at 3-5 years of age and 32-37 cm in length. At this point growth becomes very slow. Spawning occurs over summer, with small batches of eggs released over several weeks or months.

Habitat

Trevally are commonly found around the North Island and the north of the South Island. Until the age of 2, Trevally inhabit shallow areas like bays, estuaries and harbours. They then move to reefs or open waters with depths to 150 m. They feed on planktonic organisms on the surface and a variety of crustaceans on the bottom.

 
Key statistics
Recreational significance High
Customary significance High
Reported commercial catch1 (tonnes)
Quota value estimate2 (NZ$m)
Exports estimate2 (NZ$m)
1 Reported commercial catch is calculated for the 12 month period to 30/09/2025
2 Quota value and exports are calculated pro-rata to reported commercial catch for the 12 month period to 30/09/2025