Fin's Fish Guide
The Smooth horsefish (Congiopodus torvus) is a saltwater fish of the family Congiopodidae that grows up to 76 cm.
Description
The smooth horsefish is a bottom fish from the cool waters around southern Africa. The species grows to about 76 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 to about 300 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 Smooth horsefish?
The Smooth horsefish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Tall first dorsal fin and smooth scaleless skin; slow bottom fish
Where does the Smooth horsefish live?
The Smooth horsefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southern Africa
How big does the Smooth horsefish get?
The Smooth horsefish grows to a maximum of about 76 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Smooth horsefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Smooth horsefish 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 Smooth horsefish edible?
The Smooth horsefish 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 Smooth horsefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Smooth horsefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.