Fin's Fish Guide
The Southern opah (Lampris immaculatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Lampridae that grows up to 110 cm.
South America: Argentina, Australia, Crozet Is., Kerguelen Is., New Zealand, Uruguay
Description
The southern opah is a large open-ocean fish (Lampridae) from the cool waters of the Southern Ocean around the southern hemisphere. The species grows to about 1.1 metres and has a deep, round, strongly laterally compressed, silver-grey body with bright-red fins, a small mouth and large eyes. With its pectoral fins it 'flies' powerfully through the open water and hunts squid and fish; related opahs keep their body partly warm. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Southern opah?
The Southern opah has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Southern opah live?
The Southern opah lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. South America: Argentina, Australia, Crozet Is., Kerguelen Is., New Zealand, Uruguay
How big does the Southern opah get?
The Southern opah grows to a maximum of about 110 cm.
Is the Southern opah dangerous to humans?
No, the Southern opah 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.
Is the Southern opah edible?
Yes, the Southern opah is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lampris
More from the family Lampridae
Want the complete picture on the Southern opah?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Southern opah is one of 12,519 species in the app.