Enoplometopidae
Enoplometopidae is a family of deep-sea fish in the order Scorpaeniformes. These fish are characterized by their elongated bodies, large heads, and prominent spines on their heads and bodies. They are typically found in deep waters, often on the continental slopes and seamounts. Their diet consists primarily of crustaceans and other small invertebrates. The family is relatively small, containing only two genera and a handful of species.
Common Names
Enoplometopidae is not commonly known by any particular names. The fish within the family may be referred to as armored searobins or deep-sea searobins due to their resemblance to the more familiar searobins (Triglidae) and their deep-sea habitat.
Characteristics
Enoplometopid fishes share a number of distinguishing features, including:
- Elongated body shape: Their bodies are typically long and slender, with a distinct head and trunk region.
- Large head: The head is proportionally large and often has a flattened or depressed appearance.
- Prominent spines: The head and body are covered in sharp spines, providing some degree of protection. These spines are particularly noticeable on the head, particularly around the eyes and the preopercular bone.
- Small eyes: Their eyes are relatively small, which is a common adaptation for deep-sea fish.
- Fleshy tentacles: They often have fleshy tentacles on the chin and other parts of the head, which may be used for sensory purposes or to attract prey.
- Dorsal fin: The dorsal fin is often divided into two parts, with a spiny anterior portion and a soft posterior portion.
- Anal fin: The anal fin is typically short and located behind the dorsal fin.
- Pectoral fins: The pectoral fins are large and often rounded, used for maneuvering and steering in the water column.
- Pelvic fins: The pelvic fins are located on the chest and are often small and positioned close to the pectoral fins.
Environment
Enoplometopidae are typically found in deep waters, usually on the continental slopes and seamounts. They are adapted to low light conditions and can withstand high pressures. Their distribution is mainly restricted to the western Atlantic Ocean and the eastern Pacific Ocean.