Fin's Fish Guide
The Eelpout (Iluocoetes fimbriatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Zoarcidae that grows up to 36 cm.
Cold waters around the southern tip of South America; intertidal zone to ~600 m.
Description
The fringed eelpout is an eelpout (Zoarcidae) from the cold waters around the southern tip of South America. The species has an elongate, eel-like body with continuous dorsal and anal fins merging with the tail fin, and small fringe-like skin flaps. It occurs from the intertidal zone and brackish areas to about 600 m deep on soft bottoms. As a bottom fish it feeds on small invertebrates such as crustaceans, worms and molluscs. Eelpouts are usually viviparous or lay their eggs on the bottom. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Eelpout?
The Eelpout has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Eel-like body with fused fins and fringe-like skin flaps; cold-water bottom fish.
Where does the Eelpout live?
The Eelpout lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Cold waters around the southern tip of South America; intertidal zone to ~600 m.
How big does the Eelpout get?
The Eelpout grows to a maximum of about 36 cm.
Is the Eelpout dangerous to humans?
No, the Eelpout is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Eelpout edible?
The Eelpout is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Eelpout?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Zoarcidae
Want the complete picture on the Eelpout?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Eelpout is one of 12,519 species in the app.