The Agassiz's thread-sail fish (Chlorophthalmus agassizi) is a brackish-water fish of the family Chlorophthalmidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The shortnose greeneye is a small deep-water fish of the family Chlorophthalmidae reaching about 40 cm. It is notable for its very large, green-shining eyes, larger than the snout length and adapted to dim light. The body is yellow-fawn with irregular oblique brown blotches and a black-based tail; an adipose fin sits behind the dorsal. The greeneye lives on mud and clay bottoms of the continental shelf and upper slope at depths of 50 to 1000 m, feeding on benthic invertebrates and pelagic crustaceans such as euphausiids. It is a hermaphroditic species of little commercial value, taken mainly as deep-water bycatch.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Agassiz's thread-sail fish?
The Agassiz's thread-sail fish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Agassiz's thread-sail fish live?
The Agassiz's thread-sail fish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Agassiz's thread-sail fish get?
The Agassiz's thread-sail fish grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Agassiz's thread-sail fish dangerous to humans?
No, the Agassiz's thread-sail fish is harmless to humans.
Is the Agassiz's thread-sail fish edible?
The Agassiz's thread-sail fish is rarely eaten.
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Chlorophthalmus
More from the family Chlorophthalmidae
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.