Identification
A deep-sea fish of 40 to 80 cm with a large, bulbous head and a body that gradually tapers into a long, whip-like tail. The head has prominent ridges. Scales are rough and spiny. Greyish-brown to dark brown. A short barbel under the chin.
Ecology
Lives on the continental slope at 200 to 2000 meters depth. A slow swimmer hunting crustaceans, worms, and squid near the bottom.
In the Netherlands
Not regularly found in the North Sea. Confined to the deep Atlantic; only as a rare vagrant.
