Paraploactis

Paraploactis is a genus of anglerfish in the family Oneirodidae. These fish are known for their unique appearance, with their bodies often being flattened and resembling a disc or an elongated, oval shape. They are found in deep-sea environments, typically at depths of 1,000 to 3,000 meters (3,300 to 9,800 feet).

Sulu velvetfish – Paraploactis obbesi

Common Names

Paraploactis species are commonly referred to as "deep-sea anglerfish" or "batfish" due to their distinctive features. Some species may have specific common names depending on their geographic location and local knowledge.

Characteristics

Paraploactis species exhibit several distinguishing characteristics:

  • Flattened body: They have a flattened, disc-shaped or oval-shaped body, giving them a "batfish" appearance.
  • Illluminescent esca: They possess a bioluminescent lure (esca) attached to a fleshy stalk above their mouths. This lure is used to attract prey in the dark depths of the ocean.
  • Large, gaping mouth: Their mouths are wide and filled with sharp teeth, designed for catching prey.
  • Fleshy appendages: Paraploactis have fleshy appendages, or "arms," on their bodies. The exact function of these appendages is still being researched, but they are believed to play a role in locomotion or sensory perception.
  • Absence of scales: They lack scales, and their skin is often smooth or covered in small, bony plates.

Environments

Paraploactis species are exclusively found in the deep sea, inhabiting the bathypelagic and abyssopelagic zones. These environments are characterized by:

  • High pressure: The immense pressure at these depths is a significant factor in their adaptation.
  • Darkness: There is no sunlight penetration at these depths, hence the reliance on bioluminescence for survival.
  • Low temperatures: The water temperatures in these zones are consistently cold.
  • Scarcity of food: Food sources are scarce in the deep sea, hence the adaptations for attracting prey.

References

For more information on Paraploactis, you can consult the following resources:

  • [FishBase](https://www.fishbase.se/summary/Paraploactis.html)
  • [WoRMS](https://www.marinespecies.org/aphia.php?p=taxdetails&id=116233)
  • [IUCN Red List](https://www.iucnredlist.org/search?query=Paraploactis)