Fish · GBIF taxon 2385955
Antarctic Toothfish
Dissostichus mawsoniAlso known as Antarctic Cod, Mawson's Cod, Chilean Sea Bass
Reaching lengths over two meters, Antarctic toothfish reign as the dominant piscine apex predators in the frozen depths of the Southern Ocean. They produce specialized antifreeze glycoproteins that prevent their blood and body tissues from crystallizing in sub-zero seawater. Lacking a swim bladder, these ocean giants rely on high muscle fat content and low bone density to maintain neutral buoyancy while hovering above the abyssal seafloor.
Deep SeaAntarcticPredatory
Licensed reference(c) Pcziko, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
—observations
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Antarctic Silverfish
- Glacial Squid
- Grenadiers
Predators
- Type C Orca
- Weddell Seal
- Sperm Whale
ThreatsCommercial longline fishing and ocean warming
HabitatsAntarctic continental shelf, deep ocean slopes, and bathyal zones
Life span30–50 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyNototheniidae
- SpeciesDissostichus mawsoni
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Inhabits extreme abyssal Antarctic waters well beyond human reach.
Responsible observation
- Observe specimens: Research exhibits and scientific centers occasionally feature preserved specimens and models.
- Support sustainable seafood: Check seafood rating guides regarding certified Chilean sea bass fisheries.
Predator (c) Kim, Hyun-tae, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Kim, Hyun-tae · cc-by
Prey Close Relative Close Relative
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