Anglerfish

Anglerfish are a group of ray-finned fish in the order Lophiiformes, known for a modified dorsal-fin spine used as a lure to attract prey.

Anglerfish are a group of ray-finned fish in the order Lophiiformes, known for a modified dorsal-fin spine used as a lure to attract prey. They include many species found in deep water, though some live in shallower marine habitats. The group is noted for diverse body forms, carnivorous diets, and unusual reproductive strategies in some deep-sea species.

Classification

Anglerfish belong to the order Lophiiformes and include multiple families and species. They are ray-finned fishes with a wide range of body forms and habitats.

Physical characteristics

Many anglerfish have large heads, expandable mouths, and a distinctive lure near the mouth. In several deep-sea species, the lure is bioluminescent and used to attract prey.

Habitat and distribution

Anglerfish are found in oceans worldwide. Some species live near the seafloor in deep water, while others inhabit reefs, continental shelves, or shallow tropical waters.

Diet and feeding

Anglerfish are predators that eat fish, crustaceans, cephalopods, and other small marine organisms. They often ambush prey rather than pursue it actively.

Reproduction

Some deep-sea anglerfish have unusual reproductive biology, including very small males in certain species. In some cases, males attach to females for reproduction.