Linophrynidae

views updated

Linophrynidae (monster anglerfish; superorder Paracanthopterygii, order Lophiiformes) A small family of deep-sea anglerfish that have a bizarre appearance. They have a short and almost round body, a very large mouth with needle-like teeth, and a strongly developed illicium. The fins are small, with the exception of the larger, rounded tail fin. Females may possess a long tassel-like or branching barbel under the chin. The mature male is tiny and remains attached to the body of the female until spawning. There are about 20 species, distributed world-wide.