California Smoothtongue

Leuroglossus stilbius

California Smoothtongue

A small, silvery deepsea smelt, the smoothtongue swarms in midwater off the California coast, rising and sinking through the day. Abundant but seldom seen, it is a key meal for larger fish, squid and seabirds.

Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Argentiniformes › Bathylagidae › Leuroglossus

Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 313514.

FAQ

How deep does the California Smoothtongue live?
The California Smoothtongue (Leuroglossus stilbius) is typically found at 25–850 m.
Is the California Smoothtongue dangerous to divers?
The California Smoothtongue is harmless to divers.
How big does the California Smoothtongue get?
The California Smoothtongue grows to about 15 cm.