Fin's Fish Guide
The Splendid alfonsino (Beryx splendens) is a saltwater fish of the family Berycidae that grows up to 70 cm.
Widespread in deep water of warm and temperate seas worldwide, above the continental slope and near seamounts.
Description
The splendid alfonsino is a bright-red deep-water fish of the family Berycidae reaching about 70 cm. The deep, laterally compressed body has very large eyes, an obliquely upturned mouth and a deeply forked tail - adaptations to the dim light of the depths. The species is widely distributed in deep water of warm and temperate seas worldwide and forms schools above the continental slope and near seamounts. At night it moves higher in the water column to hunt small fish, squid and crustaceans. Like many deep-sea fish it grows slowly and lives long. With its handsome colour and tasty flesh the alfonsino is a valued deep-water commercial fish, though vulnerable because of its slow growth.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Splendid alfonsino?
The Splendid alfonsino has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Bright red deep-water fish with very large eyes, an obliquely upturned mouth and a deeply forked tail; forms shoals at seamounts.
Where does the Splendid alfonsino live?
The Splendid alfonsino lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Widespread in deep water of warm and temperate seas worldwide, above the continental slope and near seamounts.
How big does the Splendid alfonsino get?
The Splendid alfonsino grows to a maximum of about 70 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Splendid alfonsino dangerous to humans?
No, the Splendid alfonsino is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Splendid alfonsino edible?
Yes, the Splendid alfonsino is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Splendid alfonsino and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Beryx
More from the family Berycidae
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