Fin's Fish Guide
The Wrymouth (Cryptacanthodes maculatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Cryptacanthodidae that grows up to 97 cm.
Northwest Atlantic along the east coast of North America, in muddy bottoms of cold coastal water.
Description
The wrymouth is an elongate, eel-like bottom fish of the family Cryptacanthodidae reaching about 97 cm. The naked, laterally compressed body has a continuous dorsal fin, small high-set eyes and an obliquely upturned mouth - hence the name wrymouth. The species lives in muddy bottoms of cold coastal water along the east coast of North America, where it digs extensive burrow systems and stays almost always hidden. From the burrows it ambushes small crustaceans, molluscs and worms. Because of its hidden, burrowing lifestyle it is only rarely seen and has no fishery value, though it sometimes comes up as bycatch.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Wrymouth?
The Wrymouth has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Elongate, eel-like bottom fish with an obliquely upturned mouth and small eyes; digs extensive burrow systems in the mud.
Where does the Wrymouth live?
The Wrymouth lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northwest Atlantic along the east coast of North America, in muddy bottoms of cold coastal water.
How big does the Wrymouth get?
The Wrymouth grows to a maximum of about 97 cm.
Is the Wrymouth dangerous to humans?
No, the Wrymouth is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Wrymouth edible?
The Wrymouth is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cryptacanthodes
More from the family Cryptacanthodidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Wrymouth is one of 12,519 species in the app.