Fin's Fish Guide
The Northern wolffish (Anarhichas denticulatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Anarhichadidae that grows up to 180 cm.
North Atlantic on both sides, on and above sandy and silty bottoms in cold, deep water.
Description
The northern or blue wolffish is a large, eel-like wolffish of the family Anarhichadidae reaching about 1.8 metres. Unlike its relatives this species has a strikingly jelly-like, flabby and blue-black body; the head bears strong jaw teeth, though less massive than in the Atlantic wolffish. The species lives on and above sand and mud bottoms in the cold, deep water of the northern Atlantic on both sides. Unlike the shellfish-crushing wolffishes the northern wolffish eats mainly soft prey such as jellyfish, comb jellies and sea urchins. It grows slowly and lays large eggs in nests on the bottom, which makes it sensitive to deep-sea fishing; in Canada it is a protected species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Northern wolffish?
The Northern wolffish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Large, eel-like wolffish with a jelly-like, blue-black body and powerful jaw teeth; eats mainly jellyfish and other soft prey.
Where does the Northern wolffish live?
The Northern wolffish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. North Atlantic on both sides, on and above sandy and silty bottoms in cold, deep water.
How big does the Northern wolffish get?
The Northern wolffish grows to a maximum of about 180 cm.
Is the Northern wolffish dangerous to humans?
No, the Northern wolffish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Northern wolffish edible?
The Northern wolffish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Anarhichas
More from the family Anarhichadidae
Want the complete picture on the Northern wolffish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Northern wolffish is one of 12,519 species in the app.