Fin's Fish Guide
The California hagfish (Eptatretus stoutii) is a saltwater fish of the family Myxinidae that grows up to 64 cm.
Description
The Pacific hagfish (Eptatretus stoutii) is a jawless, eel-like marine fish of the family Myxinidae, one of the oldest living vertebrates. The species has a pinkish-grey, scaleless, snake-like body with barbels around the mouth opening and reaches about 63 cm. It lives on fine silt and clay bottoms of the deeper sea floor. Most famous is its defence: when disturbed it secretes enormous amounts of slime in a short time, thickening the water. As a scavenger it enters dead and dying fishes through the mouth or anus and eats the viscera and muscles. Through this behaviour it can greatly reduce the catch of fixed fishing gear.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the California hagfish?
The California hagfish has a snake-like body, is mainly pink-purple and shows a plain pattern. Jawless primitive fish that secretes large amounts of mucus when disturbed; scavenger in carcasses.
Where does the California hagfish live?
The California hagfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Silty and clay bottoms of the eastern Pacific.
How big does the California hagfish get?
The California hagfish grows to a maximum of about 64 cm.
Is the California hagfish dangerous to humans?
No, the California hagfish 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 California hagfish edible?
The California hagfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Eptatretus
More from the family Myxinidae
Want the complete picture on the California hagfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the California hagfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.