Fin's Fish Guide
The Blue grenadier (Macruronus novaezelandiae) is a brackish-water fish of the family Merlucciidae that grows up to 120 cm.
Temperate waters of Australia and New Zealand; continental shelf and slope.
Description
The blue grenadier, also called hoki, is a cod-like fish (Merlucciidae) from the temperate waters of Australia and New Zealand. The species has an elongate, silvery-blue body tapering backward to a thin, pointed tail, with a long dorsal and anal fin. It usually lives on or near the bottom of the continental shelf and slope, but sometimes rises into midwater; large animals live deeper. As a predator it hunts small fishes, squid and crustaceans. It is a very important commercial fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blue grenadier?
The Blue grenadier has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Elongate body with a thin, pointed tail; very important commercial fish (hoki).
Where does the Blue grenadier live?
The Blue grenadier lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Temperate waters of Australia and New Zealand; continental shelf and slope.
How big does the Blue grenadier get?
The Blue grenadier grows to a maximum of about 120 cm. On average the species is around 80 cm.
Is the Blue grenadier dangerous to humans?
No, the Blue grenadier is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blue grenadier edible?
Yes, the Blue grenadier is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Macruronus
More from the family Merlucciidae
Want the complete picture on the Blue grenadier?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blue grenadier is one of 12,519 species in the app.