Capelin
Mallotus villosus
- Group: Other
- Typical depth: 0–725 m
- Max size: 20 cm
- For divers: safe
A small silvery schooling fish of cold northern seas, capelin gather in vast shoals to feed on planktonic crustaceans, worms and small fishes. In spring great spawning runs push inshore, and the fish forms a cornerstone of the food web for seabirds, whales and larger fish.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Osmeriformes › Osmeridae › Mallotus
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 126735.
FAQ
- How deep does the Capelin live?
- The Capelin (Mallotus villosus) is typically found at 0–725 m.
- Is the Capelin dangerous to divers?
- The Capelin is harmless to divers.
- How big does the Capelin get?
- The Capelin grows to about 20 cm.