Fin's Fish Guide
The Cape monk (Lophius vomerinus) is a saltwater fish of the family Lophiidae that grows up to 100 cm.
Description
The Cape monkfish is a goosefish (Lophiidae) from the waters around southern Africa. The species has a strongly flattened, broad body with an enormous mouth full of inward-pointing teeth and a lure on the head to attract prey. It lives bottom-bound on the deeper continental shelf and upper slope, half-buried and camouflaged. As an ambush hunter it takes mainly fishes. It is a valued food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cape monk?
The Cape monk has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Enormous mouth and a rod on the head; half-buried ambush predator, a prized food fish.
Where does the Cape monk live?
The Cape monk lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Around southern Africa; deeper continental shelf and slope.
How big does the Cape monk get?
The Cape monk grows to a maximum of about 100 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Cape monk dangerous to humans?
No, the Cape monk is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Cape monk edible?
Yes, the Cape monk is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Cape monk?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cape monk is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Cape monk?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cape monk is one of 12,519 species in the app.