Fin's Fish Guide
The Imperial blackfish (Schedophilus ovalis) is a saltwater fish of the family Centrolophidae that grows up to 100 cm.
Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, in open water above rocky depths, slopes and seamounts.
Description
The imperial blackfish is a robust, oval and dark open-sea fish of the family Centrolophidae reaching about 1 metre. The laterally compressed, brown-black body has a long, continuous dorsal fin and a forked tail. The species lives in open water above rocky depths, slopes and seamounts of the Mediterranean and the adjacent eastern Atlantic. Young fish are known for sheltering under drifting weed and beside jellyfish, where they find cover and food; adults move to deeper waters. It feeds on jellyfish, salps, small fish and crustaceans. The imperial blackfish is a valued, powerful sport and food fish caught around rocky depths.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Imperial blackfish?
The Imperial blackfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Large, oval, dark open-sea fish with a continuous dorsal fin; juveniles often shelter under floating seaweed and near jellyfish.
Where does the Imperial blackfish live?
The Imperial blackfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, in open water above rocky depths, slopes and seamounts.
How big does the Imperial blackfish get?
The Imperial blackfish grows to a maximum of about 100 cm. On average the species is around 60 cm.
Is the Imperial blackfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Imperial blackfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Imperial blackfish edible?
Yes, the Imperial blackfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Imperial blackfish 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 Schedophilus
More from the family Centrolophidae
Want the complete picture on the Imperial blackfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Imperial blackfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.