Fin's Fish Guide
The Scalloped ribbonfish (Zu cristatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Trachipteridae that grows up to 118 cm.
Worldwide in warm and temperate seas, including the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea; meso- to bathypelagic.
Description
The scalloped ribbonfish is a strikingly shaped deep-sea fish of the family Trachipteridae (ribbonfishes) reaching about 1.2 metres. The strongly compressed, silvery body is deep at the front and tapers backward into a thin tail; the long dorsal fin is reddish and runs along the whole back. Juveniles have a scalloped lower edge to the body and thread-like fin rays, from which the species takes its name. It lives meso- to bathypelagically in the open water of warm and temperate seas worldwide, including the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean. As a predator it hunts small fish, squid and crustaceans. Because of its deep-sea life it is rarely seen; occasionally a specimen washes ashore or appears in shallow water.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Scalloped ribbonfish?
The Scalloped ribbonfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Ribbon- to blade-shaped deep-sea fish with a deep body tapering towards the rear, a red dorsal fin and, in juveniles, a scalloped lower edge.
Where does the Scalloped ribbonfish live?
The Scalloped ribbonfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Worldwide in warm and temperate seas, including the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea; meso- to bathypelagic.
How big does the Scalloped ribbonfish get?
The Scalloped ribbonfish grows to a maximum of about 118 cm.
Is the Scalloped ribbonfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Scalloped ribbonfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Scalloped ribbonfish edible?
The Scalloped ribbonfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Scalloped ribbonfish and live in the same waters.
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All data
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More from the family Trachipteridae
Want the complete picture on the Scalloped ribbonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Scalloped ribbonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.