Animal Profiles
Fish

Halibut

Hippoglossus

Living

Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.

Halibuts are large flatfishes that hunt near the seabed. This account follows the Atlantic halibut, a slow-growing predator of northern seas whose adults eat fishes and other marine animals.

Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus), the representative described here.

Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus), the representative described here.

Vsevolod Rudyi · CC BY

At a glance

Location
Hippoglossus hippoglossus is the representative described here. It inhabits the Atlantic and adjacent Arctic waters. Adults spend much time near the bottom but can also swim higher in the water.
Habitat
Coast, Open ocean
Diet
Carnivore
Food
Fishes dominate the adult diet, with squid, crustaceans and other bottom animals also taken.

Classification

Common name
Halibut
Browse group
Fish
Scientific name or taxon
Hippoglossus
Source classification
Actinopterygii

Three things to know

  • It is a large flatfish.
  • Adults eat other fishes.
  • It grows slowly and matures late.

Habitat and range

Hippoglossus hippoglossus is the representative described here. It inhabits the Atlantic and adjacent Arctic waters. Adults spend much time near the bottom but can also swim higher in the water.

Appearance and adaptations

The flattened body is dark brown or nearly black on its upper side. Young fish can have lighter mottling. This account describes Atlantic halibut rather than transferring its range to Pacific halibut.

Diet and behaviour

Fishes dominate the adult diet, with squid, crustaceans and other bottom animals also taken. Slow growth and late maturity can make populations sensitive to heavy fishing.

Sources

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