Deep-sea smelt
📖 Overview
Found in the shelf edge and upper bathyal in sandy mud bottom . Maximum length of 25.5 cm TL from asymptotic length in Ref. 5952 (assumed to be TL). Matures at 13 cm SL at 2 years old .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 11; Anal spines: 0; Anal soft rays: 10 - 12. Body elongated and cylindrical. Anal fin base shorter than dorsal fin base. Snout longer than eye diameter. Branchiostegals 5. Lower jaw protruding.: elongated; Cross section: oval.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Deep-sea smelt is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; benthopelagic; depth range 70 - 1017 m . Temperate; 32°N - 15°N, 101°E - 149°E Northwest Pacific: southern Japan.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Deep-sea smelt 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
Per 100g cooked - Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 14.7 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 802 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Deep-sea smelt 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)
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 1 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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