Fin's Fish Guide
The Black ruff (Centrolophus niger) is a saltwater fish of the family Centrolophidae that grows up to 150 cm.
Worldwide in temperate oceans, including the northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea; in open water at some depth.
Description
The black ruff is a slender, dark oceanic fish of the family Centrolophidae reaching about 1.5 metres. The brown-black body has large eyes, thick lips and a long, low dorsal fin running along much of the back. The species is a wandering deep-water inhabitant of temperate oceans worldwide, including the north-eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean, sometimes straying into the North Sea. In open water above the continental slope it hunts squid, fish and gelatinous plankton such as jellyfish. Juveniles live higher in the water column and move to deeper water with age. Because of its wandering, oceanic lifestyle it is rarely observed and has no targeted fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black ruff?
The Black ruff has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. Slender, dark ocean fish with a long, low dorsal fin; a wandering deep-water dweller that feeds on jellyfish and fish.
Where does the Black ruff live?
The Black ruff lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Worldwide in temperate oceans, including the northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea; in open water at some depth.
How big does the Black ruff get?
The Black ruff grows to a maximum of about 150 cm. On average the species is around 60 cm.
Is the Black ruff dangerous to humans?
No, the Black ruff is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Black ruff edible?
The Black ruff is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Black ruff and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Centrolophidae
Want the complete picture on the Black ruff?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black ruff is one of 12,519 species in the app.