The word "Crevalle" is a type of fish commonly found in the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. It is spelled k-r-uh-v-aa-l with the IPA phonetic transcription /ˈkrɛvæl/. The pronunciation of this word can vary depending on the region, with some people pronouncing it as kruh-VAHL or krev-AL. The spelling of Crevalle originates from the French word "caravelle", meaning a small vessel. Despite the slight variations in pronunciation, the spelling of Crevalle remains consistent.
Crevalle is a term used to refer to a carnivorous fish species belonging to the Carangidae family, specifically the genus Caranx. It is often utilized to describe fish within the Caranx species, such as the blue runner (Caranx crysos) or the yellow jack (Caranx bartholomaei).
Crevalle fish are typically characterized by their streamlined bodies, which are torpedo-shaped and have a silvery appearance. They possess a large mouth with sharp teeth, enabling them to feed on a diverse diet of small fish, crustaceans, and other marine organisms. These fish species are valued for their strong and agile swimming abilities, making them popular targets for recreational anglers.
Found in various coastal regions around the world, crevalle fish are often encountered in warm waters, such as the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean Sea. They can grow to varying sizes, with some species reaching lengths of up to 3 to 4 feet. Crevalles are known for exhibiting swift and powerful movements, allowing them to evade predators and capture their prey.
Given their significance in the fishing industry, crevalle fish are actively targeted for sport fishing, commercial fishing, and as a food source in some countries. They are believed to possess good fighting abilities, thus providing an exciting challenge for anglers. With their abundance and veracity, crevalle fish play an essential role in the marine ecosystem by regulating populations of smaller fish and contributing to the overall balance of coastal ecosystems.
The word "crevalle" has roots in Spanish. It is derived from the Spanish word "cravela" or "cargado de velas", which means "loaded with sails".
The term was originally used to describe a large Mediterranean sailing ship with multiple masts and sails. Over time, the word "cravela" was anglicized and became "crevalle", which was then used to refer to certain types of fishes.
In English, "crevalle" is often used to describe various species of fast-swimming, predatory fish from the genus Caranx, commonly known as jacks or trevallies. These fish are known for their swift movements and agility, which may have led to the association with the sailing ship.