Fin's Fish Guide
The Sicklefin chimaera (Neoharriotta pinnata) is a saltwater fish of the family Rhinochimaeridae that grows up to 130 cm.
Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, on soft bottoms of the deeper continental slope area.
Description
The sicklefin chimaera is a deep-water chimaera of the family Rhinochimaeridae, related to sharks and rays, reaching about 1.3 metres including the tail. The brown, scaleless body has large eyes, a long pointed snout and ends in a thin, whip-like tail. Before the first dorsal fin stands a strong, venomous spine. Instead of teeth it has flat tooth plates with which it crushes shellfish, molluscs and worms from the bottom. The species lives on soft bottoms of the deeper continental slope along the West African coast and is egg-laying, with eggs in long horny cases. Through bycatch in the deep-sea fishery it is assessed as Near Threatened (NT).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sicklefin chimaera?
The Sicklefin chimaera has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Deep-water ratfish (chimaera) with large eyes, a long pointed snout, a long whip-like tail and a venomous spine in front of the first dorsal fin.
Where does the Sicklefin chimaera live?
The Sicklefin chimaera lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, on soft bottoms of the deeper continental slope area.
How big does the Sicklefin chimaera get?
The Sicklefin chimaera grows to a maximum of about 130 cm.
Is the Sicklefin chimaera dangerous to humans?
The Sicklefin chimaera is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Before the first dorsal fin stands a strong, venomous spine that causes painful puncture wounds; handle a caught animal carefully and seek medical help for a severe reaction.
Is the Sicklefin chimaera edible?
The Sicklefin chimaera is not usually eaten.
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All data
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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More from the family Rhinochimaeridae
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