Fin's Fish Guide
The Atka mackerel (Pleurogrammus monopterygius) is a saltwater fish of the family Hexagrammidae that grows up to 57 cm.
North America: Canada, Japan, Korea (South), Russia, Kuril Is., USA and others
Description
The Atka mackerel is a greenling relative (Hexagrammidae) from cold coastal waters of the northern Pacific, around the Aleutians and the Bering Sea. The species grows to about 57 cm and has an elongate body with a yellow to olive ground and dark oblique bands. It forms enormous schools in open water above rocky bottoms and filters zooplankton with fine gill rakers. It is a very important commercial fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atka mackerel?
The Atka mackerel has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly yellow-gold.
Where does the Atka mackerel live?
The Atka mackerel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Canada, Japan, Korea (South), Russia, Kuril Is., USA and others
How big does the Atka mackerel get?
The Atka mackerel grows to a maximum of about 57 cm.
Is the Atka mackerel dangerous to humans?
No, the Atka mackerel 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.
Is the Atka mackerel edible?
Yes, the Atka mackerel is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pleurogrammus
More from the family Hexagrammidae
Want the complete picture on the Atka mackerel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atka mackerel is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone