The Strahan's hagfish (Eptatretus strahani) is a saltwater fish of the family Myxinidae that grows up to 62 cm.
Description
The Strahan's hagfish is a hagfish (Myxinidae) of soft bottoms of the continental slope around Australia and the southern oceans. The species grows to about 50 cm and has a jawless, eel-like, pale body without true fins, with barbels around the mouth opening and rows of slime pores. As a scavenger and bottom-dweller it bores into dead and dying animals; when threatened it secretes large amounts of slime. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Strahan's hagfish?
The Strahan's hagfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly pink-purple.
Where does the Strahan's hagfish live?
The Strahan's hagfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Strahan's hagfish get?
The Strahan's hagfish grows to a maximum of about 62 cm.
Is the Strahan's hagfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Strahan's hagfish is harmless to humans.
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 Eptatretus
More from the family Myxinidae
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.