Fin's Fish Guide
The Bald notothen (Pagothenia borchgrevinki) is a saltwater fish of the family Nototheniidae that grows up to 28 cm.
Description
The bald notothen is an Antarctic notothen (Nototheniidae) from the Southern Ocean. The species is remarkable in living cryopelagically: it stays at the underside of the sea ice. Antifreeze substances in its blood prevent it from freezing in the icy water. It feeds on zooplankton such as krill and copepods. It is itself an important prey for seals, birds and larger fishes. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bald notothen?
The Bald notothen has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Cryopelagic: lives on the underside of the sea ice with antifreeze compounds in the blood.
Where does the Bald notothen live?
The Bald notothen lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Southern Ocean around Antarctica; underside of the sea ice.
How big does the Bald notothen get?
The Bald notothen grows to a maximum of about 28 cm.
Is the Bald notothen dangerous to humans?
No, the Bald notothen is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bald notothen edible?
The Bald notothen is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pagothenia
More from the family Nototheniidae
Want the complete picture on the Bald notothen?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bald notothen is one of 12,519 species in the app.