Wolf-eel

Anarrhichthys ocellatus

Size: 1–2.4 m · 5–18.5 kg
Diet: Carnivore
Activity: Cathemeral
Sociality: Pair
Lifespan: —

Wolf-eel is a fish associated with reefs and coasts. It is carnivorous and often found in pairs. It remains widespread in parts of its range, but local habitat change still matters.

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Key facts

Wolf-eel (Anarrhichthys ocellatus) is a carnivore animal classified as Fish · Perciformes · Anarhichadidae.
Primary habitats are coral reef · coast, with a range across Pacific Ocean · Nearctic.
Activity is cathemeral, sociality is pair, and conservation status is LC (Least Concern).
Wolf-eel is a fish associated with reefs and coasts.
Its range is represented here by the Pacific and the Nearctic, where it uses reefs and coasts.

Sources

wikidata.org

Range

Habitat range map

Native rangeOccasional / Transient

Map: Ecoregions 2017 © RESOLVE (CC BY 4.0) · Natural Earth (PD)

Details

Habitat

Its range is represented here by the Pacific and the Nearctic, where it uses reefs and coasts. Mobile species may shift habitat use with season, breeding sites, or food availability.

Appearance

Typical length 100-240 cm, weight 5 kg-18.5 kg. It has a finned fish body plan, with proportions shaped by its habitat and mode of movement.

Behavior

It is active in bouts across day and night and often found in pairs. Spacing, group size, and visibility can change with season, feeding conditions, and breeding activity.

Feeding

It is carnivorous. Food choice and foraging style are tied to life in reefs and coasts, so movements often follow available food resources.

Reproduction

Breeding usually involves spawning, with eggs and young developing in suitable freshwater, coastal, or reef habitats.

Notes

Recorded scientifically as Anarrhichthys ocellatus. It remains widespread in parts of its range, but local habitat change still matters. In this guide, size, habitat, and activity pattern are useful first clues for recognition.