Fin's Fish Guide
The European hake (Merluccius merluccius) is a saltwater fish of the family Merlucciidae that grows up to 140 cm.
Northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, above and along the continental slope.
Description
The European hake is a slender, cod-like predator of the family Merlucciidae reaching about 1.4 metres. The silvery-grey, streamlined body has a pointed head with a large mouth full of sharp teeth and a blackish mouth lining; a chin barbel is absent. The species lives above and along the continental slope of the north-eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean, from tens to more than a thousand metres. It makes a vertical migration: by day it stays deeper near the bottom, at night it hunts higher in the water column for schooling fish such as blue whiting, sardine and anchovy, and squid. The hake is one of the most important commercial fish of southern Europe and yields lean, fine white flesh.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the European hake?
The European hake has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender, cod-like predator with a streamlined head, a large mouth full of sharp teeth and a blackish mouth lining; no chin barbel.
Where does the European hake live?
The European hake lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, above and along the continental slope.
How big does the European hake get?
The European hake grows to a maximum of about 140 cm. On average the species is around 45 cm.
Is the European hake dangerous to humans?
No, the European hake is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the European hake edible?
Yes, the European hake is a highly prized food fish.
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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 European hake?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the European hake is one of 12,519 species in the app.