Fin's Fish Guide
The Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus) is a saltwater fish of the family Pleuronectidae that grows up to 470 cm.
North Atlantic on both sides and the North Sea, on sandy, gravel and clay bottoms of cold, deep water.
Description
The Atlantic halibut is the largest flatfish in the world; this species of the family Pleuronectidae can reach nearly 5 metres and hundreds of kilograms. Like other right-eyed flatfish it lies on its left side, so both eyes are on the brown right side; the underside is white. Unlike most flatfish the halibut is a powerful, active predator with a large toothed mouth. It lives on sand, gravel and clay bottoms of cold, deep water in the northern Atlantic and along the edge of the North Sea. It hunts fish such as cod, haddock and sandeel, and squid and crustaceans. The halibut grows very old and slowly; through heavy fishing the species is assessed as Endangered (EN) and is strictly protected in many areas.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atlantic halibut?
The Atlantic halibut has a flatfish-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. The largest flatfish in the world; right-eyed, with a large mouth full of teeth. A powerful, long-lived predator of cold, deep water.
Where does the Atlantic halibut live?
The Atlantic halibut lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North Atlantic on both sides and the North Sea, on sandy, gravel and clay bottoms of cold, deep water.
How big does the Atlantic halibut get?
The Atlantic halibut grows to a maximum of about 470 cm.
Is the Atlantic halibut dangerous to humans?
No, the Atlantic halibut is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Atlantic halibut edible?
Yes, the Atlantic halibut is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Atlantic halibut and live in the same waters.
Want the complete picture on the Atlantic halibut?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atlantic halibut is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Atlantic halibut?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atlantic halibut is one of 12,519 species in the app.