Fin's Fish Guide
The Mother-of-eels (Zoarces americanus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Zoarcidae that grows up to 110 cm.
Northwest Atlantic, from Labrador to Delaware, on the bottom of the continental shelf.
Description
The ocean pout is an eel-like bottom fish (family Zoarcidae) of the north-western Atlantic. The species grows to about 110 cm and has an elongate, rearward-tapering body with a continuous dorsal and anal fin merging into the tail, and a brownish, mottled appearance. It lives demersally on the continental shelf and feeds on worms, crustaceans, molluscs, sea urchins, sea squirts and fishes. The species produces antifreeze proteins that keep it active in cold water. It is harmless to humans and is of commercial value as a food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mother-of-eels?
The Mother-of-eels has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Eel-like bottom fish that produces antifreeze proteins to stay active in cold water.
Where does the Mother-of-eels live?
The Mother-of-eels lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northwest Atlantic, from Labrador to Delaware, on the bottom of the continental shelf.
How big does the Mother-of-eels get?
The Mother-of-eels grows to a maximum of about 110 cm.
Is the Mother-of-eels dangerous to humans?
No, the Mother-of-eels is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Mother-of-eels edible?
Yes, the Mother-of-eels is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Zoarces
More from the family Zoarcidae
Want the complete picture on the Mother-of-eels?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mother-of-eels is one of 12,519 species in the app.