Fin's Fish Guide
The Pigfish (Congiopodus leucopaecilus) is a saltwater fish of the family Congiopodidae that grows up to 35 cm.
Description
The New Zealand pigfish is a bottom fish from the cool waters around New Zealand and southern Australia. The species grows to about 35 cm and has a stocky body with a high, forward-set dorsal fin, an elongate snout and scaleless, smooth skin. As a slow bottom-dweller it lives on rocky and soft bottoms of the continental shelf, between about 20 and 220 metres, and feeds on crustaceans and small invertebrates. It can periodically shed its skin. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pigfish?
The Pigfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Tall first dorsal fin and smooth scaleless skin; slow bottom fish
Where does the Pigfish live?
The Pigfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. New Zealand and southern Australia
How big does the Pigfish get?
The Pigfish grows to a maximum of about 35 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Pigfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Pigfish 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 Pigfish edible?
The Pigfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Congiopodus
More from the family Congiopodidae
Want the complete picture on the Pigfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pigfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.