Lepidion ensiferus (Günther, 1887)
Patagonian codling
Lepidion ensiferus
photo by Reyes, P.

Family:  Moridae (Morid cods)
Max. size:  40 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  bathypelagic; marine; depth range 800 - 1000 m
Distribution:  Southeast Atlantic: along the coast of South Africa, from the Cape to East London. Southwest Atlantic: from about 39° to 55°S (Ref. 1371). Southern Ocean: South Georgia Island and the sub-Antarctic islands of the Indian Ocean (Ref. 45488).
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 0-0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 56-59; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft rays: 46-48; Vertebrae: 55-55. Posterior nostril immediately anterior to eye. Lateral line system on head with pores. Pyloric caeca about 10 (Ref. 1371). Caudal fin not obviously forked. Body brown; gill cover and all fins dark brown (Ref. 27363).
Biology:  Found on the upper slope.
IUCN Red List Status: Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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