Fin's Fish Guide
The New Zealand ruffe (Schedophilus huttoni) is a saltwater fish of the family Centrolophidae that grows up to 90 cm.
Temperate waters of the southern hemisphere; edge of the continental shelf.
Description
Hutton's ruffe is a fish of the medusafish family (Centrolophidae) from the temperate waters of the southern hemisphere. The species has an elongate, dark body with a continuous dorsal fin. It occurs along the edge of the continental shelf and near oceanic islands. Adults live demersally on the continental slope at about 800 to 1000 m deep, while subadults and juveniles live in surface waters, often near floating material. It feeds on jellyfishes and other zooplankton. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the New Zealand ruffe?
The New Zealand ruffe has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Juveniles live at the surface near drifting material, adults deep on the slope.
Where does the New Zealand ruffe live?
The New Zealand ruffe lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Temperate waters of the southern hemisphere; edge of the continental shelf.
How big does the New Zealand ruffe get?
The New Zealand ruffe grows to a maximum of about 90 cm.
Is the New Zealand ruffe dangerous to humans?
No, the New Zealand ruffe is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the New Zealand ruffe edible?
The New Zealand ruffe is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the New Zealand ruffe?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the New Zealand ruffe is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 New Zealand ruffe?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the New Zealand ruffe is one of 12,519 species in the app.