The Atlantic Wolffish (Anarhichas lupus) is a large, predatory fish found in the cold, deep waters of the North Atlantic Ocean. A distinctive and fascinating species, the Atlantic Wolffish has a robust, elongated body with a prominent head and powerful jaws.
Description & Characteristics
The Atlantic Wolffish (Anarhichas lupus) can grow to a maximum size of 150.0 cm in length. The species is characterized by its thick, muscular body covered in smooth, scaleless skin. It possesses a large, blunt head with a wide mouth and powerful jaws, equipped with rows of large, canine-like teeth. The Atlantic Wolffish has a unique, mottled coloration, typically featuring a dark brown or grey background with lighter spots and blotches. This camouflage helps it blend in with the rocky bottom of its habitat.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Atlantic Wolffish (Anarhichas lupus) is a benthic species, meaning it primarily lives on the seabed. It is found in a wide range of depths, from 1.0 to 600.0 meters, inhabiting the continental shelves and slopes of the North Atlantic Ocean. This fish prefers rocky and gravelly bottoms, often dwelling in crevices and caves, providing it with shelter and protection. The Atlantic Wolffish is a common inhabitant of the cold, temperate waters of the North Atlantic, particularly in the neritic zone, which encompasses the coastal waters of continents and islands.
Taxonomy
The Atlantic Wolffish (Anarhichas lupus) belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Anarhichadidae. This classification places it within the group of bony fishes, and more specifically, within the order of perch-like fishes. The family Anarhichadidae comprises several species known as wolffishes, characterized by their predatory nature and distinctive teeth.
Feeding
The Atlantic Wolffish (Anarhichas lupus) is a voracious predator, feeding primarily on a diet of invertebrates. Its powerful jaws and teeth allow it to crush the shells of its prey, including clams, crabs, crustaceans, edible crabs, lobsters, rock lobsters, sea urchins, smelts, and starfish. Its feeding habits play a significant role in regulating the populations of these invertebrates within its ecosystem.
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