Fin's Fish Guide
The Chilean hake (Merluccius gayi) is a saltwater fish of the family Merlucciidae that grows up to 87 cm.
Description
The Chilean hake is a hake from the eastern Pacific, off the coast of Chile and Peru. The species grows to about 87 cm and has an elongate, silver-grey body with a large head and mouth full of sharp teeth. As a predator it lives over the continental shelf and slope, between about 50 and 500 metres, and hunts small fish, squid and crustaceans, often with a daily vertical migration. It is a very important commercial food fish. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chilean hake?
The Chilean hake has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Large mouth with sharp teeth; commercial predatory hake with daily migration
Where does the Chilean hake live?
The Chilean hake lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific
How big does the Chilean hake get?
The Chilean hake grows to a maximum of about 87 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Chilean hake dangerous to humans?
No, the Chilean hake 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 Chilean hake edible?
Yes, the Chilean hake is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Merluccius
More from the family Merlucciidae
Want the complete picture on the Chilean hake?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chilean hake is one of 12,519 species in the app.