Hoki facts for kids

Hoki is a word with a few different meanings, but it is most often used to talk about a type of fish. This fish is also known as the blue grenadier. It lives deep in the ocean.

All About the Hoki Fish

The hoki fish (scientific name: Macruronus novaezelandiae) is a long, slender fish. It belongs to the hake family. Hoki can grow quite large, sometimes reaching over 1 meter (about 3 feet) in length. They have a silvery-blue color on their backs and sides. Their bellies are usually paler. Hoki are important for fishing in countries like New Zealand and Australia.

Where Hoki Live

Hoki fish live in the deep waters of the southern hemisphere. They are found mainly around New Zealand and southern Australia. They prefer cold waters, often living at depths between 200 and 800 meters (650 to 2,600 feet). Sometimes they can be found even deeper. These fish often gather in large groups, called schools.

What Hoki Eat

Hoki are predators, meaning they hunt other animals for food. Their diet mostly includes small fish and squid. They also eat tiny crustaceans, which are like small shrimp. Hoki use their sharp teeth to catch their prey in the dark ocean depths.

Hoki's Life Cycle

Hoki fish have an interesting life cycle. They lay their eggs in deep ocean waters. After hatching, young hoki spend their early lives closer to the surface. As they grow, they move to deeper parts of the ocean. Hoki can live for several years. They become adults and are able to reproduce when they are around 3 to 4 years old.

Other Meanings of Hoki

Besides the fish, "Hoki" can also refer to a few things in Japan.

Hōki Province

Hōki Province was an old region in Japan. It existed many centuries ago. Today, this area is part of what is known as Tottori Prefecture. Provinces were like states or large counties in ancient Japan.

Hōki, Tottori

There is also a modern town named Hōki in Japan. This town is located within the Tottori Prefecture. It is a small community with its own local history and culture.

Hōki Era

Finally, Hōki was also the name of a Japanese era. An era name is like a period of time used in a calendar system. The Hōki era lasted from the year 770 to 781. During this time, an emperor ruled Japan, and many historical events took place.