Fish species

The Patagonian toothfish (Dissostichus eleginoides) is widely distributed throughout large areas of the sub-Antarctic oceans. It is a demersal (found at or near the sea bottom) species found at depths up to 2,500 metres, although it is reported to be pelagic (living at or near the ocean surface) throughout some periods of its life.

Patagonian toothfish is one of the two largest species of fish occurring in the Antarctic, reaching up to 2.2 metres in length and up to 100 kg in weight. Initial estimates indicate that the Patagonian toothfish lives for up to 47 years. The Patagonian toothfish grows slowly and reaches spawning age after 10 to 12 years. Its diet is based on squid and prawns.

Fishing for Patagonian toothfish began in the south-west Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Argentina and the Falkland Islands in 1994. Since 1996 and 1997, fishing has progressively moved further eastwards. Patagonian toothfish are fished in the exclusive economic zones of several countries, in areas managed by the Convention for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources. Stocks in several of these areas where protection has not been sufficient have been decimated by illegal fishing.

The properties of toothfish are quite unique. The skin is black and the flesh is white with no pin bones. When filleted, it is a solid piece of white flesh. One valuable characteristic is that the flesh contains a high level of Omega 3 fatty acids that are released when cooked. Omega 3 fatty acids have become recognised for their health benefits, particularly in combating asthma.

Page last updated 16 March, 2007