Fin's Fish Guide
The Black cigarfish (Cubiceps baxteri) is a saltwater fish of the family Nomeidae that grows up to 100 cm.
Description
The black fathead is a fish of the driftfish family (Nomeidae) from the open ocean of the southern hemisphere. The species grows to about one metre and has a streamlined, dark to silvery body with a blunt, high head. It is an oceanic, epi- to mesopelagic species of open water. As an omnivore it feeds mainly on salps, jellyfishes and other gelatinous zooplankton, supplemented with small fishes and crustaceans. Juveniles sometimes shelter under floating jellyfish and weed. Owing to its life on the open sea the species is little seen and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black cigarfish?
The Black cigarfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. Blunt, high head; feeds mainly on salps and jellyfish, juveniles shelter beneath drifting jellyfish.
Where does the Black cigarfish live?
The Black cigarfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Open ocean of the southern hemisphere; epi- to mesopelagic zone.
How big does the Black cigarfish get?
The Black cigarfish grows to a maximum of about 100 cm.
Is the Black cigarfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Black cigarfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Black cigarfish edible?
The Black cigarfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cubiceps
More from the family Nomeidae
Want the complete picture on the Black cigarfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black cigarfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone