Fin's Fish Guide
The Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Salmonidae that grows up to 107 cm.
Widespread in the far north of the northern hemisphere; anadromous populations in the sea and the north, and isolated, relict populations in cold (mountain) lakes.
Description
The Arctic char is a salmonid of the family Salmonidae reaching about 1 metre. The streamlined body bears an adipose fin between the dorsal and tail fins and is dark with pale (pink to cream) spots; in the breeding season the belly and flanks of males turn bright orange-red, with white fin edges. It is the most northerly freshwater fish in the world: it lives in cold lakes and rivers of the far north, and in isolated, cold (mountain) lakes as an Ice Age relict, such as in the Alps. Northern populations are anadromous and migrate to sea. It hunts insects, crustaceans, plankton and small fish. The Arctic char is a valued sport and food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Arctic char?
The Arctic char has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Salmonid of the far north with an adipose fin and pale spots on a dark back; at spawning time the belly and flanks turn bright orange-red.
Where does the Arctic char live?
The Arctic char lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Widespread in the far north of the northern hemisphere; anadromous populations in the sea and the north, and isolated, relict populations in cold (mountain) lakes.
How big does the Arctic char get?
The Arctic char grows to a maximum of about 107 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Arctic char dangerous to humans?
No, the Arctic char is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Arctic char edible?
Yes, the Arctic char is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Arctic char and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Salvelinus
More from the family Salmonidae
Want the complete picture on the Arctic char?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Arctic char is one of 12,519 species in the app.