Fin's Fish Guide
The Atlantic beardfish (Polymixia nobilis) is a saltwater fish of the family Polymixiidae that grows up to 48 cm.
Description
The stout beardfish is a beardfish (Polymixiidae) from the deep waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The species has a silvery body with a high forebody and a pair of long barbels under the chin, from which the group gets its name. It lives near the bottom on semi-hard and soft bottoms of the continental shelf and slope. With its barbels it seeks small fishes, crustaceans and other bottom invertebrates. It is a food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atlantic beardfish?
The Atlantic beardfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. A pair of long chin barbels; bottom-foraging deep-sea fish of shelf and slope.
Where does the Atlantic beardfish live?
The Atlantic beardfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Atlantic Ocean; continental shelf and slope.
How big does the Atlantic beardfish get?
The Atlantic beardfish grows to a maximum of about 48 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Atlantic beardfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Atlantic beardfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Atlantic beardfish edible?
Yes, the Atlantic beardfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Polymixia
More from the family Polymixiidae
Want the complete picture on the Atlantic beardfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atlantic beardfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.