Fin's Fish Guide
The Yang's hagfish (Eptatretus yangi) is a saltwater fish of the family Myxinidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
Yang's hagfish is a hagfish (Myxinidae), a jawless, primitive fish from the northwestern Pacific. The species has an eel-shaped, scaleless body without true jaws, with barbels and rasping horny teeth around the mouth. When disturbed it secretes enormous amounts of sticky slime. It lives bottom-bound on muddy bottoms of coastal waters, where it often buries itself. It feeds by scavenging on dead and dying animals. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yang's hagfish?
The Yang's hagfish has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Jawless hagfish that secretes a lot of sticky mucus when disturbed; from the waters around Taiwan.
Where does the Yang's hagfish live?
The Yang's hagfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northwest Pacific; muddy coastal bottoms.
How big does the Yang's hagfish get?
The Yang's hagfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Yang's hagfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Yang's hagfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Yang's hagfish edible?
Yes, the Yang's hagfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Eptatretus
More from the family Myxinidae
Want the complete picture on the Yang's hagfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yang's hagfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.