Fin's Fish Guide
The Midshipman (Porichthys notatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Batrachoididae that grows up to 38 cm.
Northeast Pacific, from Alaska to Baja California, from the intertidal zone to deeper water.
Description
The plainfin midshipman is a toadfish (family Batrachoididae) of the north-eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 38 cm and has an elongate body with a broad head and numerous light organs (photophores) on the underside, arranged like the buttons of a uniform. It lives from the intertidal zone, where it can survive out of water under rocks, to deeper sand and mud bottoms. Males guard the nest and produce a loud, sustained humming sound to attract females. Its diet consists of crustaceans and small fishes. The fish makes nightly vertical migrations and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Midshipman?
The Midshipman has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Males make a loud humming sound to attract females; body with photophores; tolerates being left dry in the intertidal zone.
Where does the Midshipman live?
The Midshipman lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeast Pacific, from Alaska to Baja California, from the intertidal zone to deeper water.
How big does the Midshipman get?
The Midshipman grows to a maximum of about 38 cm.
Is the Midshipman dangerous to humans?
No, the Midshipman is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Midshipman edible?
The Midshipman is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Porichthys
More from the family Batrachoididae
Want the complete picture on the Midshipman?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Midshipman is one of 12,519 species in the app.