Fin's Fish Guide
The Japanese armorhead (Pentaceros japonicus) is a saltwater fish of the family Pentacerotidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The Japanese armorhead is a deep-water fish of the family Pentacerotidae from the northwestern Pacific, around Japan. The species reaches about 25 cm and has a deep, compressed body and a head armoured with rough, exposed bony plates, to which the name refers. Juveniles live pelagically in the open water, while adults live benthopelagically near the bottom, at depths of about 100 to 830 m. The diet consists of small bottom crustaceans and invertebrates. The species is regularly caught in deep-sea fisheries and eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Japanese armorhead?
The Japanese armorhead has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Head covered with rough bony plates (armoured head); juveniles pelagic, adults near the bottom.
Where does the Japanese armorhead live?
The Japanese armorhead lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Northwest Pacific, around Japan.
How big does the Japanese armorhead get?
The Japanese armorhead grows to a maximum of about 25 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Japanese armorhead dangerous to humans?
No, the Japanese armorhead is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Japanese armorhead edible?
Yes, the Japanese armorhead is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Japanese armorhead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Japanese armorhead is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pentaceros
More from the family Pentacerotidae
Want the complete picture on the Japanese armorhead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Japanese armorhead is one of 12,519 species in the app.