Cape scaldfish
📖 Overview
Cape scaldfish (Arnoglossus capensis), first described by Boulenger, 1898 is a medium-sized fish in the family Bothidae (order Pleuronectiformes). Adults typically reach 20.00 cm in maximum length. It inhabits marine coastal and open-ocean environments. Recorded depth range: 1 to 200 metres. It occurs in Subtropical waters. It feeds on a mix of small fish and invertebrates as a mid-level predator. On the IUCN Red List, it is classified as Least Concern.The species is important as a food fish and considered a sustainable seafood option under current management. As a member of the Bothidae, it shares life-history and morphological traits with its relatives in the group.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 96 - 103; Anal spines: 0; Anal soft rays: 73 - 82. Small indistinct dark spots and markings on median fins, eyed side of body, head and pelvic fins .: short and / or deep.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Cape scaldfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; demersal; depth range 1 - 200 m . Subtropical; 20°N - 35°S South Africa.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Cape scaldfish is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Detailed nutritional data for Cape scaldfish is currently being compiled from USDA FoodData Central.
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Cape scaldfish has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔬 Full Nutritional Profile
Per 100g - Raw, per 100g - Source: USDA FoodData Central templates (generic fish average)
📊 Population Dynamics
| Year | Region | Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arnoglossus entomorhynchus | Stauch | 1967 | Synonym |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 223 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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