Fin's Fish Guide
The Silvery pout (Gadiculus argenteus) is a saltwater fish of the family Gadidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Northeast Atlantic and the western Mediterranean Sea, in open water above the continental slope.
Description
The silvery pout is a small, slender cod relative of the family Gadidae reaching about 16 cm. The silvery, slightly pink-shimmering body has, typical of the cod family, three dorsal fins and two anal fins, and stands out for its very large eyes and thin, easily shed scales. The species lives in schools in open water above the continental slope of the north-eastern Atlantic and the western Mediterranean, usually between one hundred and one thousand metres. It makes a vertical migration and feeds on small zooplankton such as copepods and shrimps. Because of its small size it has no direct use, but as an abundant prey fish it is a link in the food web.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Silvery pout?
The Silvery pout has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small, slender cod with very large eyes and a thin, easily shed silvery scaling; lives in shoals above the continental slope.
Where does the Silvery pout live?
The Silvery pout lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Northeast Atlantic and the western Mediterranean Sea, in open water above the continental slope.
How big does the Silvery pout get?
The Silvery pout grows to a maximum of about 16 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Silvery pout dangerous to humans?
No, the Silvery pout is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Silvery pout edible?
The Silvery pout is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Silvery pout and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gadiculus
More from the family Gadidae
Want the complete picture on the Silvery pout?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Silvery pout is one of 12,519 species in the app.