Fin's Fish Guide
The Southern blue whiting (Micromesistius australis) is a saltwater fish of the family Gadidae that grows up to 90 cm.
Around southern South America and the subantarctic zone; shelf and slope.
Description
The southern blue whiting is a cod relative (Gadidae) from the waters around southern South America and the subantarctic zone. The species has a slender, silvery body with three dorsal fins and two anal fins. It lives in schools; in summer it moves onto the continental shelf and in winter it concentrates over the continental slope to spawn. It feeds on zooplankton and small fishes. It is an important commercial food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Southern blue whiting?
The Southern blue whiting has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Three dorsal fins and two anal fins; schooling, commercially fished cod relative of the south.
Where does the Southern blue whiting live?
The Southern blue whiting lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Around southern South America and the subantarctic zone; shelf and slope.
How big does the Southern blue whiting get?
The Southern blue whiting grows to a maximum of about 90 cm. On average the species is around 60 cm.
Is the Southern blue whiting dangerous to humans?
No, the Southern blue whiting is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Southern blue whiting edible?
Yes, the Southern blue whiting is commonly eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Southern blue whiting?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Southern blue whiting is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Micromesistius
More from the family Gadidae
Want the complete picture on the Southern blue whiting?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Southern blue whiting is one of 12,519 species in the app.