Fin's Fish Guide
The Anderson's eelpout (Gymnelus andersoni) is a saltwater fish of the family Zoarcidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Arctic coastal waters of the Arctic Ocean and adjacent seas, on stony and rocky bottoms of cold, shallow water.
Description
Anderson's eelpout is a small, elongate and eel-like eelpout of the family Zoarcidae reaching about 14 cm. The scaleless, brownish body bears pale cross-bars and has a continuous fin fringe over back, tail and belly; the pectoral fins are small and the pelvic fins almost absent. The species is adapted to cold, shallow polar water and lives on stone and rock bottoms of the Arctic coastal waters of the Arctic Ocean and adjacent seas, around North America and Siberia. Hidden among stones it searches for small crustaceans, worms and molluscs. Like other eelpouts it lays relatively few, large eggs, guarded as a clutch by the parent. Because of its small size and remote habitat it is rarely seen.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Anderson's eelpout?
The Anderson's eelpout has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Elongate, scaleless and eel-like small eelpout with a continuous fin fringe and pale vertical bars; adapted to cold, shallow polar water.
Where does the Anderson's eelpout live?
The Anderson's eelpout lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Arctic coastal waters of the Arctic Ocean and adjacent seas, on stony and rocky bottoms of cold, shallow water.
How big does the Anderson's eelpout get?
The Anderson's eelpout grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Anderson's eelpout dangerous to humans?
No, the Anderson's eelpout is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Anderson's eelpout edible?
The Anderson's eelpout is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Anderson's eelpout?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gymnelus
More from the family Zoarcidae
Want the complete picture on the Anderson's eelpout?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Anderson's eelpout is one of 12,519 species in the app.