How to Identify Norway Haddock

To identify Norway Haddock (Sebastes viviparus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Typically bright red to reddish-orange on the dorsal side, fading to pinkish or whitish on the ventral side. Often has indistinct darker blotches or bands on the back and sides, which can be more pronounced in younger individuals. Fins are usually reddish.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Large eyes, characteristic of deep-water fish., Strongly spined head, with prominent spines above the eyes, on the preoperculum, and operculum., A distinct, often dark, spot on the operculum (gill cover)., Lateral line is prominent and follows the contour of the body., Lower jaw often slightly protruding.

Dorsal fin

Single, long dorsal fin with 14-16 strong, sharp spines followed by 12-15 soft rays. The spiny and soft-rayed portions are continuous but deeply notched.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is truncate to slightly emarginate.

Pectoral fin

Large and fan-like, with 16-19 rays.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin has 3 spines and 7-9 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic with 1 spine and 5 soft rays. All fins, especially the dorsal and anal fins, possess sharp, venomous spines.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Size

   Smaller than other redfish species, rarely exceeding 35 cm in length.

2. 2

   Coloration

   Bright red to reddish-orange, often with faint darker blotches. The opercular spot is a key identifier.

3. 3

   Spines

   Numerous and sharp spines on the head and fins. Count the dorsal fin spines (14-16) and soft rays (12-15) for confirmation.

4. 4

   Eyes

   Relatively large eyes compared to its body size.

5. 5

   Lateral Line

   Clearly visible and follows the body contour.

Explore Norway Haddock