The Threetooth hagfish (Notomyxine tridentiger) is a saltwater fish of the family Myxinidae that grows up to 58 cm.
Description
The threetooth hagfish is a hagfish (Myxinidae) of soft bottoms of the continental slope in the southwestern Atlantic. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a jawless, eel-like, pale body without true fins, with barbels around the mouth opening and rows of slime pores. As a scavenger and bottom-dweller it bores into dead and dying animals; when threatened it secretes large amounts of slime. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Threetooth hagfish?
The Threetooth hagfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly pink-purple.
Where does the Threetooth hagfish live?
The Threetooth hagfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Threetooth hagfish get?
The Threetooth hagfish grows to a maximum of about 58 cm.
Is the Threetooth hagfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Threetooth hagfish is harmless to humans.
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
More from the family Myxinidae
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