Fin's Fish Guide
The Giant oarfish (Regalecus glesne) is a saltwater fish of the family Regalecidae that grows up to 800 cm.
Temperate and tropical oceans worldwide; open ocean, several hundred metres deep.
Description
The giant oarfish is the longest bony fish in the world, of the family Regalecidae from temperate and tropical oceans. The species can reach about 8 metres and has an extremely elongate, ribbon-like, silvery body with a red dorsal fin running its whole length and long, thread-like front fin rays. It lives in the open ocean, usually at several hundred metres, and is rarely seen alive; stranded or dying individuals at the surface fed sea-serpent legends for centuries. As a plankton feeder it filters small zooplankton, especially shrimp-like forms, from the water. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Giant oarfish?
The Giant oarfish has a snake-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Longest bony fish in the world (up to approx. 8 m); ribbon-shaped with a red dorsal fin, it fed the legends about sea serpents.
Where does the Giant oarfish live?
The Giant oarfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Temperate and tropical oceans worldwide; open ocean, several hundred metres deep.
How big does the Giant oarfish get?
The Giant oarfish grows to a maximum of about 800 cm. On average the species is around 300 cm.
Is the Giant oarfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Giant oarfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Giant oarfish edible?
The Giant oarfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Regalecus
More from the family Regalecidae
Want the complete picture on the Giant oarfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Giant oarfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.