Melanonus gracilis Günther, 1878
Pelagic cod
Melanonus gracilis
photo by SFSA

Family:  Melanonidae (Melanonids)
Max. size:  18.7 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  bathypelagic; marine; depth range 150 - 3613 m, oceanodromous
Distribution:  Circumpolar in subantarctic and temperate waters, occasionally being taken in the tropics (Ref. 6525). South Atlantic south of the Subtropical Convergence. Also captured recently in Prydz Bay, Antarctica.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 0-0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 67-72; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft rays: 52-54; Vertebrae: 57. Pale to dark brown in color (Ref. 6607, Ref. 5209). P 9-10, V7, A50, C32+ (Ref. 36024). P 12-14, V7 (Ref. 2942). Pectoral numbers are to be clarified.
Biology:  Oceanic species. Also mesopelagic (Ref. 7300). Has been recorded from over the continental slope in depths of 600 to 1,100 m (Ref. 9563). Biology unknown (Ref. 7130).
IUCN Red List Status: Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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