The Spinenose horsefish (Congiopodus spinifer) is a saltwater fish of the family Congiopodidae that grows up to 45 cm.
Southeast Atlantic off southern Africa; soft bottoms of the continental shelf.
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Description
The horsefish is a horsefish (Congiopodidae) from the southeastern Atlantic Ocean. The species has a stocky body with a high, spiny dorsal fin and a pointed, pig-like snout. Notably, it periodically sheds the outer keratinous layer of its skin. It lives bottom-bound on soft bottoms of the continental shelf. As a slow bottom hunter it takes small crustaceans and other invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spinenose horsefish?
The Spinenose horsefish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Tall spiny dorsal fin and pig-like snout; periodically sheds the outer layer of skin.
Where does the Spinenose horsefish live?
The Spinenose horsefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeast Atlantic off southern Africa; soft bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Spinenose horsefish get?
The Spinenose horsefish grows to a maximum of about 45 cm. On average the species is around 17 cm.
Is the Spinenose horsefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Spinenose horsefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Spinenose horsefish edible?
The Spinenose horsefish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Congiopodus
More from the family Congiopodidae
Want the complete picture on the Spinenose horsefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spinenose horsefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone