Fin's Fish Guide
The Threadfin goosefish (Lophiodes spilurus) is a saltwater fish of the family Lophiidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The spottedtail goosefish is an anglerfish of the goosefish family (Lophiidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a strongly flattened body with an enormous, broad mouth and a modified first dorsal ray with a lure on the head. Adults live benthically on the continental shelf and upper slope. As an ambush predator it lies camouflaged on the bottom and lures prey with the rod toward its large, sharp-toothed mouth, then engulfs fishes and crustaceans. Owing to its deep, hidden habits the species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Threadfin goosefish?
The Threadfin goosefish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Strongly flattened body with an enormous mouth and a small lure on the head to attract prey.
Where does the Threadfin goosefish live?
The Threadfin goosefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; benthic on the continental shelf and the upper slope.
How big does the Threadfin goosefish get?
The Threadfin goosefish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Threadfin goosefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Threadfin goosefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Threadfin goosefish edible?
The Threadfin goosefish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lophiodes
More from the family Lophiidae
Want the complete picture on the Threadfin goosefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Threadfin goosefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.