Agonus

Agonus is a genus of fish in the family Agonidae, commonly known as poachers or sea poachers. These fish are characterized by their elongated, cylindrical bodies, with bony plates covering their skin. They typically have a small, pointed head and a long, tapered tail. Agonus species inhabit marine environments, primarily found in the northern Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, as well as the Arctic Ocean.

Hooknose – Agonus cataphractus

Common Names

The members of the genus Agonus are commonly known as poachers or sea poachers. They are also sometimes referred to as "sea snails" due to their slow, snail-like movements.

Characteristics

Agonus species are characterized by several distinctive features:

  • Elongated, cylindrical body: Their body shape is slender and resembles a tube, giving them a somewhat eel-like appearance.
  • Bony plates: The skin is covered in bony plates, providing them with armor-like protection. These plates are arranged in rows along the body, giving them a distinctive appearance.
  • Small, pointed head: Their head is typically small and pointed, with a small mouth.
  • Long, tapered tail: The tail is long and tapers gradually, providing them with agility for maneuvering in tight spaces.
  • Dorsal fins: Agonus species have two dorsal fins, with the first one being short and spiny, while the second one is longer and soft-rayed.
  • Pelvic fins: Their pelvic fins are located on the underside of the body and are small and fleshy.
  • Coloration: The coloration of Agonus species varies depending on the species and the environment. Some species have a brown or gray coloration, while others can have a more colorful pattern.

Environments

Agonus species are found in a variety of marine habitats, including:

  • Coastal waters: They are commonly found in shallow coastal areas, often near rocky reefs and kelp forests.
  • Subtidal zones: They can also inhabit deeper subtidal zones, up to depths of several hundred meters.
  • Bottom-dwelling: Agonus are primarily bottom-dwelling fish, often found resting on the seabed or burrowing in the sediment.

References