Fin's Fish Guide
The Greater forkbeard (Phycis blennoides) is a saltwater fish of the family Phycidae that grows up to 110 cm.
Northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, on mixed and rocky bottoms.
Description
This is a cod relative of the family Phycidae reaching about 110 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 Greater forkbeard?
The Greater 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 Greater forkbeard live?
The Greater 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 Greater forkbeard get?
The Greater forkbeard grows to a maximum of about 110 cm.
Is the Greater forkbeard dangerous to humans?
No, the Greater forkbeard is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Greater forkbeard edible?
Yes, the Greater forkbeard is commonly eaten.
Easily confused with
These species look like the Greater 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
Want the complete picture on the Greater forkbeard?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Greater forkbeard is one of 12,519 species in the app.