Genypterus Capensis
Colour, Shape and Size
With its very elongate body tapering to a point at the tail, the Kingklip bears a close resemblance to a number of eels. However unlike most eels, which are round in cross-section, the kinklip is moderately compressed. The body is pinkish overall, but somewhat paler below and irregularly marked with brown
blotches on the upper flanks. The fins are also darker brown. Can attain 150cm.
External Anatomy
But for the head, the entire boy is covered with minute scales that do not overlap one another and are arranged in oblique series along the distinct lateral
line. The scales are not firm, and this soft bodied fish is rather slimy to the touch. The fins are primitive and spineless, with the long dorsal and anal fins joining at the caudal to form a single continuous fin. The pectoral fins are small and rounded, while the pelvics are reduced to a pair of barble-like structures projecting from the chin. The snout is blunt and the mouth is rather large and underslung. Both jaws bear rows of fine sharply pointed teeth, a few of which are enlarged. Teeth also occur on the palate. There are 4-6 knobbly rakers on the first gill arch.
Natural History
This bottom dwelling fish inhabits offshore banks ranging in depth from 50-500m. The kingklip is carnivorous and its varied diet includes, in order of importance, small bottom living fishes known collectively as dragonets, mantis shrimps, juvenile jacopever, hake, and also small quantities of megalopa crab larvae and squid. It would appear that while most prey is taken on the bottom, midwater feeding also occurs. The kingklip attains sexual maturity at an age of four or five years corresponding to a body length of 50-60cm. Spawning occurs primarily from August to October and the juveniles congregate in certain areas, often in shallower water than the adult fish. Preliminary research has revealed that there is a higher percentage of males amongst smaller fish. This possibly indicates dissimilar growth for the sexes.
Capture
This is one of Southern Africa’s finest eating fishes and justifiably its flesh commands a high market price. Considerable numbers are Trawled off Namibia and it is also becoming a more common catch on bottom set longlines. The new 200km economic zone should ensure that the species is not over-exploited by foreign fishing fleets.
Specific Catch Restrictions
Netting by permit and quota only.
