Fin's Fish Guide
The Chen's hagfish (Eptatretus cheni) is a saltwater fish of the family Myxinidae that grows up to 38 cm.
Description
The Chen's hagfish is a hagfish (Myxinidae) from cold, deep, muddy seabeds of the deep northwest Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a jawless, eel-like, scaleless body with a round mouth full of horny rasping teeth and barbels around the nose. When disturbed it secretes enormous amounts of slime in seconds to choke attackers. As a scavenger it bores into dead and dying animals on the bottom. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chen's hagfish?
The Chen's hagfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly pink-purple.
Where does the Chen's hagfish live?
The Chen's hagfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Taiwan/Ch Taipei
How big does the Chen's hagfish get?
The Chen's hagfish grows to a maximum of about 38 cm.
Is the Chen's hagfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Chen's 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.
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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 Chen's hagfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chen's hagfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.