Fin's Fish Guide
The Common torpedo (Torpedo torpedo) is a saltwater fish of the family Torpedinidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Eastern Atlantic from the southern Bay of Biscay and the entire Mediterranean Sea to Angola.
Description
The common torpedo is a rounded electric ray of the family Torpedinidae reaching about 60 cm. The upper side is brown, usually with five conspicuous blue, black-ringed eyespots; the underside is white. Within the 'wings' lie powerful electric organs that the ray uses to stun prey and defend itself with a shock of up to about 200 volts. The species lives on soft bottoms of the eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean, usually shallower than 70 m, ambushing small fish and bottom animals at night. It is ovoviviparous. Fishing pressure has left the species assessed as Vulnerable; it should never be handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common torpedo?
The Common torpedo has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Round electric ray with usually five blue, black-rimmed eyespots on the back; has electric organs that deliver a shock of up to ~200 volts.
Where does the Common torpedo live?
The Common torpedo lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic from the southern Bay of Biscay and the entire Mediterranean Sea to Angola.
How big does the Common torpedo get?
The Common torpedo grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Common torpedo dangerous to humans?
The Common torpedo can cause injury; handle it with care. Do not touch this fish: it can deliver a strong electric shock (up to ~200 volts). After a shock, move to safety and seek medical help for chest symptoms, dizziness or persistent complaints.
Is the Common torpedo edible?
The Common torpedo is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Common torpedo and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Torpedo
More from the family Torpedinidae
Want the complete picture on the Common torpedo?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common torpedo is one of 12,519 species in the app.