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Alfonsino (Beryx decadactylus)

Photo of Alfonsino (Beryx decadactylus)

Key facts

Scientific name
Beryx decadactylus
Common name
Alfonsino
Category
Fish
Family
Berycidae
Genus
Beryx
Size
30–70 cm
Depth
200–1000 m
IUCN status
Least concern (LC)
Danger level
Harmless
Habitats
open-water
Behaviours
schooling, nocturnal
Ocean zones
Asian Pacific, East Atlantic, Macaronesia

Description

Beryx decadactylus reaches 70 cm. Taller and rounder body than B. splendens, red-orange to red-brown color. Lives from 200 to 1000 m on seamounts and slopes. Sometimes forms mixed schools with B. splendens. Highly appreciated red flesh, commercially fished by deep traps. Both Beryx are emblematic of Azores seamounts. Direct observations rare as depth beyond recreational diving range.

Photo of Alfonsino

Photo of Alfonsino (Beryx decadactylus)Photo of Alfonsino (Beryx decadactylus)

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Alfonsino?
Alfonsino (Beryx decadactylus) reaches 30–70 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Alfonsino?
Alfonsino is found between 200–1000 m deep.
Is the Alfonsino dangerous to divers?
Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Alfonsino?
IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
Where can you find the Alfonsino?
Found in: Asian Pacific, East Atlantic, Macaronesia.

Other species in the genus Beryx

  • Beryx splendens - Splendid alfonsino

Sources

  • Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 126394)
  • Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
  • Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 2356613)
  • Conservation: IUCN Red List
  • Encyclopedia: Wikipedia