Fin's Fish Guide
The Japanese beardfish (Polymixia japonica) is a saltwater fish of the family Polymixiidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The Japanese beardfish (Polymixia japonica) is a deep-water fish of the family Polymixiidae from the northwestern Pacific. The species has a stocky, silvery body with large eyes and, characteristically, a pair of long chin barbels under the mouth, from which it takes its name. It reaches about 30 cm and lives in the middle to bottom zone over sandy-mud bottoms of the continental slope. With its chin barbels it probes the bottom for benthic invertebrates. The Polymixiidae form an ancient, distinct group of bony fishes. The species is landed locally as bycatch and is of limited commercial importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Japanese beardfish?
The Japanese 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; belongs to an ancient group of bony fishes.
Where does the Japanese beardfish live?
The Japanese beardfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Continental slope of the northwest Pacific.
How big does the Japanese beardfish get?
The Japanese beardfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Japanese beardfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Japanese beardfish 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 Japanese beardfish edible?
The Japanese beardfish is rarely eaten.
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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 Japanese beardfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Japanese beardfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.