Fin's Fish Guide
The Angel fish (Hydrolagus colliei) is a saltwater fish of the family Chimaeridae that grows up to 100 cm.
Near the bottom of the northeast Pacific, from the coast to great depth.
Description
The spotted ratfish (Hydrolagus colliei) is a chimaera of the family Chimaeridae from the northeastern Pacific, related to sharks and rays. The species has a smooth, silvery-brown body with white spots, large pectoral fins, large eyes and a tapering, rat-like tail, and reaches about one metre. It lives near the bottom, from just offshore to over 900 metres deep, and is abundant in cold water at moderate depths. The diet consists of mollusks, crustaceans, fishes, echinoderms and worms. In front of the dorsal fin it bears a venomous spine that can cause a painful wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Angel fish?
The Angel fish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Chimaera with white blotches and a rat-like tail; venomous spine in front of the dorsal fin.
Where does the Angel fish live?
The Angel fish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Near the bottom of the northeast Pacific, from the coast to great depth.
How big does the Angel fish get?
The Angel fish grows to a maximum of about 100 cm.
Is the Angel fish dangerous to humans?
The Angel fish can cause injury; handle it with care. The spine in front of the dorsal fin is venomous and can cause a painful puncture wound. Remove any visible material and immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 °C); clean and disinfect the wound and seek medical help in case of severe pain or infection.
Is the Angel fish edible?
The Angel fish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hydrolagus
More from the family Chimaeridae
Want the complete picture on the Angel fish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Angel fish is one of 12,519 species in the app.