The Hoka (Pseudophycis bachus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Moridae that grows up to 90 cm.
Description
The red cod is a cod-like fish of the morid cod family (Moridae) from the temperate waters around New Zealand and southern Australia. The species grows to about 60 cm and has a reddish to bronze body with a small chin barbel. It usually lives on soft mud or sand bottoms, but also on rocky bottoms, in estuaries, bays and on the continental shelf; in New Zealand it is most abundant at 200 to 300 m along the shelf edge. As a bottom predator it feeds on crustaceans, fishes and worms. It is a valued food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hoka?
The Hoka has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Hoka live?
The Hoka lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Hoka get?
The Hoka grows to a maximum of about 90 cm. On average the species is around 55 cm.
Is the Hoka dangerous to humans?
No, the Hoka is harmless to humans.
Is the Hoka edible?
Yes, the Hoka is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pseudophycis
More from the family Moridae
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