Bishop

Ophidion barbatum

The bishop fish is a bottom fish found in temperate and cold waters of the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. It lives in rocky and sandy areas, at depths ranging from 20 to 800 meters.

It is a solitary and sedentary fish that remains hidden during the day in rock crevices and comes out to hunt at night. It feeds on crustaceans, mollusks and small fish.

The bishop fish is a medium-sized fish that can measure about 50 centimeters in length and weigh about one kilogram. It has a large head and a prominent lower jaw, which gives it a peculiar and distinctive appearance. Its body is elongated and slender, dark brown on top and lighter underneath. It has a long dorsal fin and an anal fin that extends to the caudal fin.

How to Eat

It has a firm white flesh with a soft and tender texture. The flesh has a mild and slightly sweet flavor, similar to that of other white fish.

It is a highly appreciated fish in the kitchen due to its delicate flavor and soft texture. It can be cooked in various ways, such as roasted, baked, fried or grilled. It is also commonly used to make soups and stews due to its mild and pleasant flavor.