Aulopiformes
Aulopiformes is an order of ray-finned fishes comprising about 150 species in 18 families. Most are elongated, with many resembling eels or lancetfish. They are mostly marine, but some inhabit freshwater environments. Aulopiformes are found in a wide range of depths, from the surface to the abyssal zone, and are often found in tropical and subtropical waters. They are generally carnivorous, with some species specializing in feeding on zooplankton.
Common Names
Members of this order are commonly referred to as "lizardfishes," "greeneyes," "whalefishes," and "snipe eels." These names reflect the diverse morphology and habitats of the order.
Characteristics
Aulopiformes exhibit a wide range of morphologies, but share some common characteristics:
- Elongated body shape: Most species have a long, slender body, often with a pointed head and a tapering tail.
- Large eyes: Many aulopiform species have large eyes, which are often adapted for low-light conditions.
- Photophores: Some species possess photophores, light-producing organs, used for communication, attracting prey, or camouflage.
- Teeth: Most Aulopiformes have sharp, pointed teeth, suited for their carnivorous diet.
- Scales: Scales can be absent, small, or embedded in the skin, depending on the species.
Environments
Aulopiform species are found in a variety of marine environments:
- Surface waters: Some species, such as the greeneyes, inhabit the surface waters of the open ocean.
- Mesopelagic zone: Many aulopiforms live in the mesopelagic zone, also known as the "twilight zone," between 200 and 1000 meters depth.
- Abyssal zone: Some species are found in the abyssal zone, the deepest part of the ocean, below 4000 meters.
- Freshwater: A few species inhabit freshwater rivers and lakes.
References
For further information on Aulopiformes, please refer to the following resources: