Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackfin goosefish (Lophius gastrophysus) is a saltwater fish of the family Lophiidae that grows up to 68 cm.
Description
The blackfin goosefish is an anglerfish from the western Atlantic, off the coast of South America. The species grows to about 68 cm and has a strongly flattened, broad body with an enormous, upturned mouth full of teeth. On the head it bears a movable rod with a lure flap with which it draws prey towards its mouth. As a motionless bottom-dweller it lies buried on sandy and muddy bottoms of the continental slope and engulfs fish and squid. It is a valued commercial fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackfin goosefish?
The Blackfin goosefish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Enormous mouth and a movable little rod with a lure; buried ambush predator
Where does the Blackfin goosefish live?
The Blackfin goosefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic
How big does the Blackfin goosefish get?
The Blackfin goosefish grows to a maximum of about 68 cm. On average the species is around 45 cm.
Is the Blackfin goosefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackfin goosefish 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.
Is the Blackfin goosefish edible?
Yes, the Blackfin goosefish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lophius
More from the family Lophiidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackfin goosefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackfin goosefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.