Fin's Fish Guide
The Bigeye unernak (Gymnelus hemifasciatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Zoarcidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Arctic coastal waters of the Arctic Ocean and adjacent seas, around North America and Siberia, on stony bottoms in cold water.
Description
The bigeye unernak is an elongate, eel-like eelpout of the family Zoarcidae reaching about 10.5 cm. The brownish, sparsely scaled body has a continuous fin fringe running over back, tail and belly. The species is adapted to cold, deep water and lives on soft bottoms of the cold northern seas. Close to the bottom it slowly searches for small crustaceans and worms. Like other eelpouts it lays relatively few, large eggs that develop slowly in the cold water. Because of its life in the remote, cold deep sea it is rarely caught and little is known about it.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bigeye unernak?
The Bigeye unernak has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Elongate, eel-like eelpout with a continuous fin fringe; adapted to cold, deep water.
Where does the Bigeye unernak live?
The Bigeye unernak lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Arctic coastal waters of the Arctic Ocean and adjacent seas, around North America and Siberia, on stony bottoms in cold water.
How big does the Bigeye unernak get?
The Bigeye unernak grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Bigeye unernak dangerous to humans?
No, the Bigeye unernak is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bigeye unernak edible?
The Bigeye unernak is not usually eaten.
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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 Bigeye unernak?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bigeye unernak is one of 12,519 species in the app.