Cape grenadier
📖 Overview
Cape grenadier (Macruronus capensis), first described by Davies, 1950 is a very large fish in the family Merlucciidae (order Gadiformes). Adults typically reach 100.00 cm in maximum length. It inhabits marine coastal and open-ocean environments. Recorded depth range: 250 to 658 metres. It occurs in Subtropical waters. Diet is predominantly piscivorous, targeting other fish and larger prey. The species is important as a food fish. As a member of the Merlucciidae, it shares life-history and morphological traits with its relatives in the group.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 1; Dorsal soft rays (total): 99 - 111; Anal spines: 0; Anal soft rays: 75 - 102. Dorsal portion of body blackish blue, sides and belly silvery white; fins black.: elongated; Cross section: oval.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Cape grenadier is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; benthopelagic; non-migratory; depth range 250 - 658 m . Subtropical; 33°S - 38°S, 14°E - 27°E Southeast Atlantic: off South Africa in deep waters off the Cape of Good Hope, Mossel Bay and off Algoa Bay.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Macruronus Capensis 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 grenadier is currently being compiled from USDA FoodData Central.
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Cape grenadier 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 (lean white fish average)
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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