Moridilla
Moridilla is a genus of snailfish, which are a group of deep-sea fish belonging to the family Liparidae. The genus contains a number of species, all of which are small, with elongated, gelatinous bodies. They are found in the deep waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. Moridilla species are typically benthopelagic, meaning they live near the bottom of the ocean.
Common Names
Members of the genus Moridilla are commonly referred to as "snailfish" or "sea snails." However, they are not related to snails in any way, and the name likely refers to their slow, creeping movements.
Characteristics
Moridilla species share several key characteristics:
- Small size: They are typically only a few centimeters long.
- Elongated, gelatinous body: Their bodies are soft and flexible, allowing them to squeeze into tight spaces.
- Large, protruding eyes: Their eyes are well-developed, helping them to navigate in the dimly lit depths of the ocean.
- Small, weak fins: Their fins are not well-suited for swimming, but they use them for movement and maneuvering on the seabed.
- Lack of scales: Their bodies are covered in a thin layer of skin, rather than scales.
Environment
Moridilla species inhabit the deep waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. They are found at depths ranging from a few hundred meters to several thousand meters, where the water is cold and dark. These fish are benthopelagic, meaning they live near the bottom of the ocean, but also occasionally swim into the water column.