Fin's Fish Guide
The Ocean whitefish (Caulolatilus princeps) is a saltwater fish of the family Malacanthidae that grows up to 102 cm.
Eastern Pacific; rocky bottoms and adjacent sand and mud bottoms from British Columbia (Canada) to Peru.
Description
The ocean whitefish is a tilefish of the family Malacanthidae from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about one metre and has an oblong, yellow-brown to olive body with a paler belly and a long, continuous dorsal and anal fin. It inhabits rocky bottoms and adjacent sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf. As a bottom predator it feeds on crustaceans, molluscs, worms and small fishes. The ocean whitefish is a valued sport and food fish with tasty flesh and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ocean whitefish?
The Ocean whitefish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a plain pattern. Oblong body with a long continuous dorsal and anal fin; bottom-dwelling predator with tasty flesh.
Where does the Ocean whitefish live?
The Ocean whitefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific; rocky bottoms and adjacent sand and mud bottoms from British Columbia (Canada) to Peru.
How big does the Ocean whitefish get?
The Ocean whitefish grows to a maximum of about 102 cm.
Is the Ocean whitefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Ocean whitefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Ocean whitefish edible?
Yes, the Ocean whitefish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Caulolatilus
More from the family Malacanthidae
Want the complete picture on the Ocean whitefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ocean whitefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.