Stomiiformes Stomiiformes

Stomiiformes - Definition and Overview

Stomiiformes
Scientific classification
Kingdom:Animalia
Phylum:Chordata
Class:Actinopterygii
Order:Stomiiformes
Families

Suborder Gonostomatoidei
 Gonostomatidae - Bristlemouths
 Sternoptychidae - Deep-sea hatchetfishes
Suborder Photichthyoidei
 Photichthyidae - Lightfishes
 Stomiidae - Barbeled dragonfishes


Stomiiformes is an order of ray-finned fish that includes the dragonfishes, lightfishes, hatchetfishes, viperfishes, and loosejaws. It includes four families with a total of about 320 species.

Members of the order have luminescent organs called photophores, and teeth on the premaxilla and maxilla, attached in a distinctive way. They may have chin barbels and most have large mouths, extending back past the eyes. Several fins may be absent, and colors are typically dark brown or black. All are marine fish, and many are found only at great depths.

Reference

External link

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