Embletoniidae
Embletoniidae is a family of small, deep-sea fish found in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. This family is part of the order Ophidiiformes, which also includes cusk-eels, brotulas, and pearlfishes. These fish are commonly called “emblem eels” due to their distinctive features and elongated bodies. Embletoniidae is known for its unique adaptations for survival in the deep ocean, including bioluminescent lures and specialized feeding mechanisms.
Common Names
Common names for fish belonging to the family Embletoniidae include "emblem eels," "emblem fishes," and "emblem cods."
Characteristics
Emblem eels are characterized by their elongated, slender bodies, which can grow up to 30 centimeters in length. They typically have small, pointed heads with large eyes. Their bodies are covered in smooth, scaleless skin. Some species have bioluminescent lures on their heads, which they use to attract prey in the dark depths of the ocean.
Emblem eels have a unique feeding mechanism. Their mouths are adapted for capturing small prey, and they possess a specialized jaw structure that allows them to extend their mouths to a remarkable degree. This feature enables them to capture prey that is much larger than their own mouths.
Environment
Emblem eels are primarily found in the deep ocean, inhabiting depths ranging from 200 to 1,000 meters. They prefer habitats with soft sediments and are often found near coral reefs, seamounts, and canyons. These fish play an important role in the deep-sea ecosystem, acting as predators of smaller invertebrates and crustaceans.
References
For more information on the Embletoniidae family, you can refer to these resources: