Fin's Fish Guide
The Smallscale slickhead (Leptochilichthys microlepis) is a saltwater fish of the family Leptochilichthyidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The Smallscale slickhead is a slickhead (Alepocephalidae) from the cold, dark deep sea around Australia and adjacent oceans. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a slender, dark, scaleless or thin-scaled body with a large head, large eyes and a slimy, bare snout. As a slow dweller of deep water it hovers just above the bottom and snaps at gelatinous animals, small plankton and sinking organic matter. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Smallscale slickhead?
The Smallscale slickhead has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly black.
Where does the Smallscale slickhead live?
The Smallscale slickhead lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia, Japan
How big does the Smallscale slickhead get?
The Smallscale slickhead grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Smallscale slickhead dangerous to humans?
No, the Smallscale slickhead is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Want the complete picture on the Smallscale slickhead?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Want the complete picture on the Smallscale slickhead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Smallscale slickhead is one of 12,519 species in the app.