Wednesday, June 16, 2010

June 16, 2010 : Coffinfish


Coffinfish

Coffinfish are a family, Chaunacidae, of deep-sea anglerfishes.

They are bottom-dwelling fishes found on the continental slopes of the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans, at depths of up to 2,000 metres (6,600 ft).


They have large globose bodies and a short compressed tail, and are covered with small spiny scales. The largest are about 30 centimetres (12 in) in length. Their first dorsal fin ray is modified into a short bioluminescent lure which dangles forward over the mouth, which is turned upwards so as to be nearly vertical. The sensory canals of the lateral lines are especially conspicuous.

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