Fish
European Hake
Merluccius merluccius
In the dark waters off the Atlantic shelf, a European hake rises from the sea bed at dusk, its big mouth ready for a passing shoal of sardines.
Overview
The European hake, Merluccius merluccius, is a Least Concern predatory fish of the continental shelf from Norway to West Africa, the Mediterranean, and the Black Sea. Its night hunting, deep-water life, and importance as a food fish make it one of the most valuable fish of southern Europe.
A fish with a loyal following
Hake is so beloved in Spain that it is a staple of restaurant menus, and the demand has made it one of the most important targets of the Spanish fishing fleet.
Status
Least Concern, with northern stocks recovering under management.
European Hake: common questions
When does the hake feed?
It spends the day near the sea bed and rises into the water at night to hunt shoaling fish.
What does the European hake eat?
It eats shoaling fish such as sardines, anchovies, and blue whiting, along with squid and crustaceans.
Why is the hake so popular in Spain?
It is one of the most popular and valuable fish in Spain and southern Europe, prized for its firm, white, delicate flesh.
Where is the European hake found?
It lives on the continental shelf and slope from Norway to West Africa, and in the Mediterranean and Black Sea.