Fin's Fish Guide
The Beardfish (Polymixia lowei) is a saltwater fish of the family Polymixiidae that grows up to 29 cm.
Western Atlantic; soft bottoms of the continental shelf and the upper slope.
Description
The Beardfish is a beardfish (Polymixiidae) of the continental slope in the western Atlantic. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a stocky, silvery body with large eyes and a pair of long chin barbels with which it feels over the bottom. As a bottom-oriented fish of the deep water it searches for small crustaceans, worms and small fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Beardfish?
The Beardfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. A pair of long chin barbels for probing the bottom; ancient, distinct group of fishes.
Where does the Beardfish live?
The Beardfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic; soft bottoms of the continental shelf and the upper slope.
How big does the Beardfish get?
The Beardfish grows to a maximum of about 29 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Beardfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Beardfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Beardfish edible?
The Beardfish is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Beardfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Beardfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Beardfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Beardfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.