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The Okhotsk Atka mackerel (Pleurogrammus azonus) is a commercially important demersal fish species belonging to the family Hexagrammidae (greenlings). It is characterized by its elongated body, distinctive fin structure, and a coloration that provides camouflage in its benthic habitat. This species plays a significant ecological role as both a predator and prey in the North Pacific ecosystem.
Physical Characteristics
- Body shape
- elongated
- Coloration
- Dorsal side is typically dark olive-green to brownish-gray, often with irregular darker blotches or bands that provide camouflage. The ventral side is lighter, silvery-white. Fins may have darker markings.
- Scale type
- ctenoid
- Mouth position
- terminal
- Distinctive features
- Five lateral lines on each side of the body, a key characteristic of the family Hexagrammidae., Two dorsal fins, with the first being spiny and the second soft-rayed., A relatively large mouth with small, conical teeth., Large pectoral fins.
- Dorsal fin
- Two dorsal fins: the first with 20-23 spines, the second with 24-28 soft rays. The two fins are typically separated by a distinct notch.
- Tail fin
- Caudal fin is emarginate to slightly forked.
- Pectoral fin
- Large and rounded, with 18-20 rays.
- Distinctive fins
- Pelvic fins are thoracic, located beneath the pectoral fins, with one spine and five soft rays. Anal fin has 24-28 soft rays, lacking spines.
Identification Tips
Lateral Lines
Count the lateral lines; Pleurogrammus azonus has five distinct lateral lines on each side, a defining feature of greenlings.
Dorsal Fins
Observe the two dorsal fins; the first is spiny and the second is soft-rayed, with a clear separation between them.
Coloration and Pattern
Note the dark olive-green to brownish-gray dorsal coloration with irregular blotches, contrasting with a lighter ventral side.
Mouth Size
The mouth is relatively large, extending to below the anterior margin of the eye.
Habitat
- Water type
- saltwater
- Depth
- Typically found in coastal waters from the intertidal zone down to depths of approximately 200 meters (650 feet), though most commonly observed between 20-150 meters.
- Environment
- Demersal, inhabiting rocky bottoms, kelp beds, and areas with strong currents. Prefers cold, temperate waters.
- Geographic range
- North Pacific Ocean, primarily in the Sea of Okhotsk, Bering Sea, Aleutian Islands, Gulf of Alaska, and along the coasts of Japan, Korea, and Russia. Its range extends south to Honshu, Japan, and north to the Bering Strait.
Aquarium Information
- Care level: expert
- Temperament: semi-aggressive
- Diet: carnivore
- Minimum tank size: Not suitable for home aquaria due to size, specific environmental needs, and commercial importance.
- Temperature: 2-10°C (36-50°F)
- pH level: 7.8-8.2
- Hardness: High (marine salinity)
- Compatibility: Not compatible with typical aquarium setups or other fish species due to its cold-water, deep-sea requirements and predatory nature.
- Special requirements: Requires large, specialized cold-water marine aquaria with strong filtration, specific lighting, and a constant supply of live or fresh marine prey. Not recommended for private aquarists.
Wild Information
- Conservation status: least concern
- Seasonality: Peak fishing seasons typically occur in spring and autumn, though availability can vary by region and management regulations.
- Market price: Varies significantly based on region, season, and processing (fresh, frozen, processed). Generally a moderately priced food fish.
- Commercial importance: high
- Taste: Mild, slightly sweet, and savory with a clean finish.
- Texture: Firm, flaky, and moist white flesh.
- Cooking methods: Grilling, Baking, Frying, Steaming, Smoking
- Nutritional value: Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals (e.g., Vitamin D, B12, selenium).
Key Facts
Five Lateral Linesinteresting
A unique characteristic of the Hexagrammidae family, including the Okhotsk Atka mackerel, is the presence of five distinct lateral lines on each side of its body, which are sensory organs used to detect water movement.
Benthic Predatorbehavior
The Okhotsk Atka mackerel is a significant benthic predator, feeding on a variety of invertebrates and smaller fish, playing a crucial role in the food web of its cold-water habitats.
Commercial Importanceinteresting
This species is highly valued in commercial fisheries, particularly in Japan, Russia, and Korea, where it is a popular food fish.
Spawning Aggregationsbehavior
During spawning season, Okhotsk Atka mackerel form dense aggregations in shallow, rocky areas, where females lay adhesive eggs that are guarded by males.
Safety Information
Safe- Safety level: safe
- Venomous: No
- Edibility: edible
- Handling notes: No specific handling precautions are required beyond standard fish handling practices to avoid cuts from sharp fin rays or gill plates. Not venomous.
Similar Species
Atka mackerel
Pleurogrammus monopterygius
Pleurogrammus monopterygius typically has a more uniform coloration, often with distinct vertical bars or bands, and generally fewer dorsal fin spines (19-22) and soft rays (22-26) compared to P. azonus. P. monopterygius also tends to be found in slightly deeper and more oceanic waters, particularly around the Aleutian Islands and Gulf of Alaska, while P. azonus is more prevalent in the western North Pacific and Sea of Okhotsk.
Arabesque greenling
Hexagrammos otakii
Hexagrammos otakii, while also a greenling with five lateral lines, generally has a more robust body, a smaller mouth, and often exhibits more intricate, 'arabesque' patterns on its body. Its geographic range is more restricted to the coastal waters of Japan and Korea.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Scorpaeniformes
- Family
- Hexagrammidae
- Genus
- Pleurogrammus
- Species
- P. azonus
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