Fin's Fish Guide
The Sharp-spined notothen (Trematomus pennellii) is a saltwater fish of the family Nototheniidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The sharp-spined notothen is an Antarctic notothen from the cold waters around Antarctica. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a spindle-shaped, mottled body adapted to icy water; related species carry antifreeze proteins in the blood. As a bottom-dweller it lives from shallow water to about 730 metres and feeds on small crustaceans, worms and benthic life. The fish is harmless to humans and has no commercial value. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sharp-spined notothen?
The Sharp-spined notothen has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Spindle-shaped marbled body adapted to ice-cold water; Antarctic bottom-dweller
Where does the Sharp-spined notothen live?
The Sharp-spined notothen lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Antarctic waters
How big does the Sharp-spined notothen get?
The Sharp-spined notothen grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Sharp-spined notothen dangerous to humans?
No, the Sharp-spined notothen 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 Sharp-spined notothen edible?
The Sharp-spined notothen is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Trematomus
More from the family Nototheniidae
Want the complete picture on the Sharp-spined notothen?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sharp-spined notothen is one of 12,519 species in the app.