Fin's Fish Guide
The Atlantic batfish (Dibranchus atlanticus) is a saltwater fish of the family Ogcocephalidae that grows up to 39 cm.
Atlantic Ocean, on soft bottoms of the deeper continental slope, usually at several hundred to more than a thousand metres depth.
Description
The Atlantic batfish is a strongly flattened deep-sea anglerfish of the family Ogcocephalidae (batfishes) reaching about 39 cm. The round, armoured body has a rough skin with bony knobs and limb-like pectoral and pelvic fins, with which the fish slowly 'walks' over the bottom rather than swimming. Beneath the short snout sits a small, retractable lure (a remnant of the rod of related anglerfishes). The species lives on soft bottoms of the deeper continental slope of the Atlantic. On the bottom it slowly searches for small crustaceans, worms and molluscs. Because of its bizarre shape and deep lifestyle it is only rarely seen.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atlantic batfish?
The Atlantic batfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Strongly flattened deep-sea anglerfish with a rough, armoured body; 'walks' on leg-like pectoral and pelvic fins and has a small lure organ beneath the snout.
Where does the Atlantic batfish live?
The Atlantic batfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Atlantic Ocean, on soft bottoms of the deeper continental slope, usually at several hundred to more than a thousand metres depth.
How big does the Atlantic batfish get?
The Atlantic batfish grows to a maximum of about 39 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Atlantic batfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Atlantic batfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Atlantic batfish edible?
The Atlantic batfish is not usually eaten.
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Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
More from the family Ogcocephalidae
Want the complete picture on the Atlantic batfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atlantic batfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.