The Coastal cubehead (Cubiceps whiteleggii) is a saltwater fish of the family Nomeidae that grows up to 21 cm.
Description
The coastal cubehead is an open-water fish from the Indo-West and adjacent Pacific. The species grows to about 21 cm and has a streamlined, silver-grey body with large eyes. As a dweller of the deeper open water over the continental slope, between about 180 and 550 metres, it feeds mainly on jellyfish, salps and other gelatinous plankton, supplemented with small crustaceans. Juveniles sometimes shelter beneath drifting jellyfish. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Coastal cubehead?
The Coastal cubehead has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Coastal cubehead live?
The Coastal cubehead lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Coastal cubehead get?
The Coastal cubehead grows to a maximum of about 21 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Coastal cubehead dangerous to humans?
No, the Coastal cubehead is harmless to humans.
Is the Coastal cubehead edible?
The Coastal cubehead is not usually 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
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