Coral hake swimming among Lophelia coral  is related to the northern cod fish.

Hake is in the same taxonomic order (Gadiformes) as cod and haddock. It is a medium to large fish averaging from 1 to 8 pounds (0.45 to 3.63 kg) in weight, with specimens as large as 60 pounds (27 kg). The fish can grow up to 1 meter (3 ft 3 in) in length with a lifespan as long as 14 years.

Hake may be found in the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean in waters from 200–350 metres (660–1,150 ft) deep. The fish stay in deep sea water during the day and come to shallower depths during the night.

An undiscerning predator, hake feed on their prey found near or on the bottom of the sea. Male and female hake are very similar in appearance.

Exploring Underwater Oases: July 27 – September 1, 2002