Hexagrammos

Hexagrammos is a genus of fish belonging to the family Hexagrammidae, commonly known as greenlings. These marine ray-finned fishes are found in the North Pacific Ocean. The genus name itself, Hexagrammos, is derived from the Greek words "hex" meaning six and "gramma" meaning line, referring to the prominent lateral lines that are characteristic of many species within this group.

Species within the genus Hexagrammos typically possess elongated, laterally compressed bodies. They are often characterized by a series of small, hair-like sensory appendages, or cirri, above the eyes and sometimes along the lateral line. The coloration of these fish can vary significantly, ranging from greenish and brown to reddish hues, often providing camouflage within their rocky or kelp forest habitats. They are generally demersal, meaning they inhabit the seafloor.

Hexagrammos species are typically predatory, feeding on a variety of small invertebrates, crustaceans, and other small fish. They are a common component of the nearshore ichthyofauna in their native range, which extends from the coasts of Alaska and Canada down to Japan and Korea. Several species are of interest to commercial and recreational fisheries, though their populations can be subject to local pressures.