Fin's Fish Guide
The Spanish ling (Molva macrophthalma) is a saltwater fish of the family Lotidae that grows up to 108 cm.
Description
The Spanish ling or blue ling is an elongate cod relative (Lotidae) from the northeast Atlantic and Mediterranean. The species grows to about 1 metre and has a slender, brownish body with long dorsal and anal fins, large eyes and a small chin barbel. As a bottom-oriented predator it lives on the continental slope between about thirty and a thousand metres and hunts fish and crustaceans. It is a food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spanish ling?
The Spanish ling has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Spanish ling live?
The Spanish ling lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Europe: Spain, Syria, Tunisia, Türkiye, Egypt, UK and others
How big does the Spanish ling get?
The Spanish ling grows to a maximum of about 108 cm.
Is the Spanish ling dangerous to humans?
No, the Spanish ling 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.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Spanish ling 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 Molva
More from the family Lotidae
Want the complete picture on the Spanish ling?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spanish ling is one of 12,519 species in the app.