The Maori chief (Notothenia angustata) is a saltwater fish of the family Nototheniidae that grows up to 41 cm.
Description
The Maori chief is a notothen from temperate-cold waters around New Zealand and subantarctic islands. The species grows to about 41 cm and has a stocky, brown mottled body with a large head. As a bottom-dweller it lives in shallow rocky coastal zones and tide pools and hunts small crustaceans, molluscs and small fish. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Maori chief?
The Maori chief has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Stocky cold-water bottom-dweller with a large head
Where does the Maori chief live?
The Maori chief lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. New Zealand and subantarctic islands
How big does the Maori chief get?
The Maori chief grows to a maximum of about 41 cm.
Is the Maori chief dangerous to humans?
No, the Maori chief is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Maori chief edible?
Yes, the Maori chief is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Notothenia
More from the family Nototheniidae

Want the complete picture on the Maori chief?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Maori chief is one of 12,519 species in the app.