Fin's Fish Guide
The Atlantic sea raven (Hemitripterus americanus) is a saltwater fish of the family Hemitripteridae that grows up to 68 cm.
Northwest Atlantic along the coast of North America, from Labrador and Newfoundland (Canada) southwards to Chesapeake Bay (USA).
Description
The Atlantic sea raven (Hemitripterus americanus) is a large, stocky bottom fish of the family Hemitripteridae from the cold northwestern Atlantic, ranging from Labrador to Chesapeake Bay. It grows to about 60 cm and has a broad head covered with spines and skin flaps, a large mouth and a mottled brownish-red skin giving excellent camouflage on rocky and sandy bottoms. A slow-moving ambush predator, it preys on fishes, crustaceans and other bottom animals. Harmless to people, it is rarely eaten, though sometimes landed as bycatch.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atlantic sea raven?
The Atlantic sea raven has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Large, stocky bottom fish with a broad head full of spines and skin flaps, a large mouth and marbled, heavily camouflaged skin.
Where does the Atlantic sea raven live?
The Atlantic sea raven lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northwest Atlantic along the coast of North America, from Labrador and Newfoundland (Canada) southwards to Chesapeake Bay (USA).
How big does the Atlantic sea raven get?
The Atlantic sea raven grows to a maximum of about 68 cm.
Is the Atlantic sea raven dangerous to humans?
No, the Atlantic sea raven 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 Atlantic sea raven edible?
The Atlantic sea raven is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hemitripterus
More from the family Hemitripteridae
Want the complete picture on the Atlantic sea raven?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atlantic sea raven is one of 12,519 species in the app.