The Alaska halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis) is a saltwater fish of the family Pleuronectidae that grows up to 258 cm.
Description
The Pacific halibut is a very large flatfish from the cold waters of the northern Pacific. The species grows to about 258 cm and has an oblong, rhomboid, strongly flattened body with both eyes on the right side and a dark-brown upper side. As a powerful predator it lives over sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf and slope, to about 1200 metres, and hunts fish, squid and crustaceans. It is a very important commercial food and sport fish. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Alaska halibut?
The Alaska halibut has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Very large diamond-shaped flatfish with eyes on the right side; powerful predator
Where does the Alaska halibut live?
The Alaska halibut lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North Pacific
How big does the Alaska halibut get?
The Alaska halibut grows to a maximum of about 258 cm.
Is the Alaska halibut dangerous to humans?
No, the Alaska halibut is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Alaska halibut edible?
Yes, the Alaska halibut is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hippoglossus
More from the family Pleuronectidae

Want the complete picture on the Alaska halibut?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Alaska halibut is one of 12,519 species in the app.