Fin's Fish Guide
The Alligatorfish (Aspidophoroides monopterygius) is a saltwater fish of the family Agonidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Northwest Atlantic along the east coast of Canada and the northeastern USA, over sandy and silty bottoms of cold coastal water.
Description
The alligatorfish is an elongate bottom fish of the family Agonidae (poachers) reaching about 22 cm. The slender, rearward-tapering body is encased in rings of bony plates, making it stiff and angular - hence the name alligatorfish. The head has a small, inferior mouth. The species lives over sand and mud bottoms of cold coastal water along the east coast of Canada and the northeastern USA. Because of its armour it swims slowly and mostly stays on the bottom, where it searches for small crustaceans and worms. Because of its small size it has no fishery value and is mainly seen as bycatch.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Alligatorfish?
The Alligatorfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Elongate bottom fish with the body enclosed in rings of bony plates, making it stiff and angular like a small alligator.
Where does the Alligatorfish live?
The Alligatorfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northwest Atlantic along the east coast of Canada and the northeastern USA, over sandy and silty bottoms of cold coastal water.
How big does the Alligatorfish get?
The Alligatorfish grows to a maximum of about 22 cm. On average the species is around 14 cm.
Is the Alligatorfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Alligatorfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Alligatorfish edible?
The Alligatorfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Aspidophoroides
More from the family Agonidae
Want the complete picture on the Alligatorfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Alligatorfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.