Fin's Fish Guide
The Gray rockcod (Lepidonotothen squamifrons) is a saltwater fish of the family Nototheniidae that grows up to 55 cm.
Southern Ocean around Antarctica and sub-Antarctic islands; continental shelf and slope.
Description
The grey rockcod is a notothenioid fish of the family Nototheniidae from the cold waters of the Southern Ocean around Antarctica and the sub-Antarctic islands. The species grows to about 55 cm and has a stocky, greyish body. It lives demersally on the continental shelf and slope. As a bottom and midwater searcher it feeds mainly on macrozooplankton, chiefly crustaceans (krill), cnidarians and salps. Like other icefishes it is adapted to the ice-cold water. The grey rockcod is locally fished and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Gray rockcod?
The Gray rockcod has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Cold-water notothenioid of the Southern Ocean; feeds mainly on krill and other macrozooplankton.
Where does the Gray rockcod live?
The Gray rockcod lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southern Ocean around Antarctica and sub-Antarctic islands; continental shelf and slope.
How big does the Gray rockcod get?
The Gray rockcod grows to a maximum of about 55 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Gray rockcod dangerous to humans?
No, the Gray rockcod is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Gray rockcod edible?
Yes, the Gray rockcod is commonly eaten.
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All data
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Habitat & distribution
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More from the family Nototheniidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Gray rockcod is one of 12,519 species in the app.