[5] They are also known to follow ships, sometimes for long distances; one was found in County Cork, Ireland,[6] and many pilot fish have been sighted on the shores of England.

[10][11][12] The pilot fish is also known to have a temporary variation of colour when excited; its dark-coloured bars disappear, and its body turns silvery-white, with three broad blue patches on its back.

[15] The pilot fish is edible[16][17] and is said to taste good,[18][19] but it is rarely available due to its erratic behaviour when caught.

In Greek mythology, a sailor called Pompilus helped the nymph Ocyrhoe when she was fleeing away from the god Apollo.

[34] Pancrates of Arcadia stated that it was a sacred fish in honour to Poseidon and that it was forbidden to eat it: actually a fisherman called Epopeus ate it and paid for his audacity with his life.