Lycodes
Lycodes is a genus of marine fish belonging to the family Zoarcidae, commonly known as eelpouts. These fish are found in the northern Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, inhabiting cold, deep waters. Lycodes species are characterized by their elongate, eel-like bodies, small eyes, and numerous, often prominent, barbels around the mouth. They are typically found in association with benthic habitats, such as rocky bottoms, seagrass beds, and coral reefs.
Common Names
Lycodes species are commonly referred to as eelpouts, but specific species may have unique common names, such as the "Arctic eelpout" (Lycodes frigidus) or the "spotted eelpout" (Lycodes vahlii).
Characteristics
Lycodes species share a number of characteristic features, including:
- Elongate body: Their bodies are elongated and snake-like, resembling eels.
- Small eyes: They have relatively small eyes, often located dorsally on the head.
- Barbels: They possess numerous barbels around the mouth, which are sensory organs used for detecting food and navigating in murky waters.
- Fins: They have a single dorsal fin that runs the length of the back, an anal fin extending along the ventral side, and a small, caudal fin at the tail.
- Coloration: Lycodes species can exhibit a range of colors, often with a mottled or spotted pattern.
Environment
Lycodes species are typically found in cold, deep waters, inhabiting a variety of benthic habitats, including:
- Rocky bottoms: They are commonly found among rocks and crevices on the seafloor.
- Seagrass beds: Some species prefer to dwell in seagrass meadows, where they find shelter and prey.
- Coral reefs: Certain species may be found in association with coral reefs, particularly in deeper regions.
Lycodes species are generally found at depths ranging from 100 to 1,000 meters, although some species can occur in shallower or deeper waters.
References
For more information on Lycodes species, consult the following reliable resources: