Fin's Fish Guide
The Black halibut (Reinhardtius hippoglossoides) is a saltwater fish of the family Pleuronectidae that grows up to 110 cm.
Description
The Greenland halibut is a large flatfish of the righteye flounder family (Pleuronectidae) from the cold northern Atlantic and Arctic Ocean. The species grows to about 1.1 metres and has an elongate body with both eyes on the right side, but unlike most flatfishes also a well-developed, dark-coloured blind side, related to its partly active, pelagic hunting behaviour. It lives at great depth and tolerates bottom temperatures of -0.5 to 6 degrees. As a predator it hunts fishes, squid and crustaceans. The Greenland halibut is a very important commercial fish; owing to fishing pressure it is listed as Near Threatened (NT). It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black halibut?
The Black halibut has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Flatfish with a dark-coloured blind side due to partly active, pelagic hunting behaviour; near threatened (NT) through fishing.
Where does the Black halibut live?
The Black halibut lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Cold North Atlantic and Arctic Ocean; great depth.
How big does the Black halibut get?
The Black halibut grows to a maximum of about 110 cm. On average the species is around 56 cm.
Is the Black halibut dangerous to humans?
No, the Black halibut is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Black halibut edible?
Yes, the Black halibut is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Pleuronectidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black halibut is one of 12,519 species in the app.