Family Anoplopomatidae

Sablefishes

Selected Characters: Two dorsal fins; gill membranes attached to ishthmus; single lateral line present.

This is a small family, consisting of just two marine species from the North Pacific. Only the smaller of these species, the Sablefish, can be found in Puget Sound. It may reach one meter in length and has gained commercial importance. Its oily flesh is usually smoked and marketed as 'Alaska black cod.' The Sablefish is oviparous. Juveniles are generally found in shallow water, while adults are found at moderate depths along the mud bottom. Adults may be migratory. The Sablefish feeds on small fishes, crustaceans, and worms. It is common in Puget Sound.

Puget Sound Species

Anoplopoma fimbria Sablefish