Fin's Fish Guide
The Royal flagfin (Aulopus filamentosus) is a saltwater fish of the family Aulopidae that grows up to 44 cm.
Eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, over sandy, gravel and rocky bottoms of the deeper continental shelf.
Description
The royal flagfin is a slender bottom fish of the family Aulopidae reaching about 44 cm. The red-brown, mottled body has large eyes, a small adipose fin on the back and a notably high dorsal fin; in the male the first dorsal ray is greatly elongated into a flag-like streamer, displayed during courtship. The species lives over sand, gravel and rock bottoms of the deeper continental shelf in the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean. It often rests on the bottom, propped on its pelvic fins, and watches for small fish, crustaceans and worms. It is landed as bycatch and has tasty flesh.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Royal flagfin?
The Royal flagfin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Slender bottom fish with large eyes, an adipose fin and a high dorsal fin; the male has an elongated, flag-like first dorsal fin ray.
Where does the Royal flagfin live?
The Royal flagfin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, over sandy, gravel and rocky bottoms of the deeper continental shelf.
How big does the Royal flagfin get?
The Royal flagfin grows to a maximum of about 44 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Royal flagfin dangerous to humans?
No, the Royal flagfin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Royal flagfin edible?
Yes, the Royal flagfin is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Royal flagfin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Royal flagfin is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Aulopus
More from the family Aulopidae
Want the complete picture on the Royal flagfin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Royal flagfin is one of 12,519 species in the app.