Fin's Fish Guide
The Bigspine boarfish (Pentaceros quinquespinis) is a saltwater fish of the family Pentacerotidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The bigspine boarfish is an armorhead (Pentacerotidae) of the continental slope in the southern Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, greyish body with a large head armoured with rough bony plates and stout dorsal and pelvic spines. As a bottom-oriented fish of deep water it searches for small crustaceans, worms and small fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bigspine boarfish?
The Bigspine boarfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Bigspine boarfish live?
The Bigspine boarfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Chile
How big does the Bigspine boarfish get?
The Bigspine boarfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Bigspine boarfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Bigspine boarfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pentaceros
More from the family Pentacerotidae
Want the complete picture on the Bigspine boarfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bigspine boarfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.