Cape Hake and Similar Species
Merluccius capensis
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Cape Hake. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Benguela Hake
Merluccius paradoxus
Key differences: M. paradoxus (deep-water Cape Hake) generally has a shorter pectoral fin that does not reach the anus, and typically inhabits deeper waters (300-1000m) than M. capensis. M. paradoxus also tends to have a slightly smaller head and eye relative to body size.
European Hake
Merluccius merluccius
Key differences: Geographic distribution is the primary differentiator, as M. merluccius is found in the Northeast Atlantic and Mediterranean. Morphologically, M. merluccius often has a slightly less pronounced lower jaw and subtle differences in fin ray counts.
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