Fin's Fish Guide
The Forkbeard (Phycis phycis) is a saltwater fish of the family Phycidae that grows up to 65 cm.
Northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, on mixed and rocky bottoms.
Description
This is a cod relative of the family Phycidae reaching about 65 cm. The elongate, brownish body has a chin barbel and, very characteristically, a pelvic fin modified into a pair of long, thread-like feelers; with these the fish probes over the bottom for food. The species lives on mixed and rocky bottoms of the north-eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean, from shallow water to hundreds of metres, sheltering by day in crevices, holes and wrecks. At night it hunts crustaceans, molluscs and small fish. Its firm white flesh makes it a valued food fish, taken locally by commercial and sport fisheries.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Forkbeard?
The Forkbeard has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Cod-like fish with a chin barbel and a pelvic fin modified into long feelers, with which the fish probes the bottom.
Where does the Forkbeard live?
The Forkbeard lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, on mixed and rocky bottoms.
How big does the Forkbeard get?
The Forkbeard grows to a maximum of about 65 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Forkbeard dangerous to humans?
No, the Forkbeard is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Forkbeard edible?
Yes, the Forkbeard is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Forkbeard 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 Phycis
More from the family Phycidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Forkbeard is one of 12,519 species in the app.