Fin's Fish Guide
The Castor oil fish (Ruvettus pretiosus) is a saltwater fish of the family Gempylidae that grows up to 300 cm.
Description
The oilfish is a large deep-sea predator of the family Gempylidae reaching about 300 cm. The brown to dark-brown body has a notably rough skin studded with bony tubercles and a keel along the belly. The species lives near the bottom in all warm and temperate oceans, usually between 200 and 400 m, mostly solitary or in pairs, hunting fish, crustaceans and squid. Its flesh is very oily owing to wax esters the body cannot digest; eating large amounts has a strong purgative effect. For this reason the oilfish is eaten only sparingly and has limited commercial value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Castor oil fish?
The Castor oil fish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Deep-sea predator with very rough skin full of small bony spines and a ventral keel; the flesh is strongly oily (wax esters) and acts as a laxative. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with care or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Castor oil fish live?
The Castor oil fish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Circumtropical and circumtemperate in all oceans (55°N-43°S).
How big does the Castor oil fish get?
The Castor oil fish grows to a maximum of about 300 cm. On average the species is around 150 cm.
Is the Castor oil fish dangerous to humans?
The Castor oil fish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Harmless to handle, but the very oily flesh (wax esters) has a strong purgative effect; large portions can cause digestive upset. Eat only small amounts.
Is the Castor oil fish edible?
The Castor oil fish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Gempylidae
Want the complete picture on the Castor oil fish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Castor oil fish is one of 12,519 species in the app.