Fin's Fish Guide
The Smallhead eelpout (Bothrocarina microcephala) is a saltwater fish of the family Zoarcidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Northwest Pacific around the Sea of Japan and the Sea of Okhotsk, on soft bottoms in cold, deep water.
Description
The smallhead eelpout is an elongate, eel-like eelpout of the family Zoarcidae reaching about 50 cm. The brownish, sparsely scaled body has a continuous fin fringe running over back, tail and belly. The species is adapted to cold, deep water and lives on soft bottoms of the deep northern Pacific. Close to the bottom it slowly searches for small crustaceans and worms. Like other eelpouts it lays relatively few, large eggs that develop slowly in the cold water. Because of its life in the remote, cold deep sea it is rarely caught and little is known about it.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Smallhead eelpout?
The Smallhead eelpout has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Elongate, eel-like eelpout with a continuous fin fringe; adapted to cold, deep water.
Where does the Smallhead eelpout live?
The Smallhead eelpout lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northwest Pacific around the Sea of Japan and the Sea of Okhotsk, on soft bottoms in cold, deep water.
How big does the Smallhead eelpout get?
The Smallhead eelpout grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 41 cm.
Is the Smallhead eelpout dangerous to humans?
No, the Smallhead eelpout is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Smallhead eelpout edible?
The Smallhead eelpout is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Bothrocarina
More from the family Zoarcidae
Want the complete picture on the Smallhead eelpout?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Smallhead eelpout is one of 12,519 species in the app.