Bathypterois Gunther, 1878
Snout depressed, spatulate. Oral cavity voluminous when open due to large gape and expansive branchiostegal network. Gillrakers numerous, closely set, blade-like and setose. Eyes minute, probably of limited usefulness (Munk, 1959). Lowermost caudal finray(s) and outermost pelvic finrays(s) stiffened and greatly produced (19-144% SL). Pectoral fin usually differentiated into distinct upper and lower portions; two uppermost rays usually greatly elongated. Scale pockets very distinct, diamond-shaped. Pseudobranch absent. Pyloric caeca absent.
Circumglobal at tropical and temperate latitudes. Benthic at bathyal to abyssal depths (250-6,000 m). Typical but generally non-abundant members of the demersal fauna. Deep-dwelling species are probably solitary; shallower-dwelling species may aggregate. Stilt-like pelvic and caudal finrays elevate the fish above the substrate to feed on benthopelagic plankton (Sulak, 1977b; Marshall and Merrett, 1977). Elongate pectoral finrays and associated membrane serve a sensory function (Sulak, 1977b). Synchronously hermaphroditic, self-fertilization may be possible (Mead et al., 1964). Only a few post-larvae are known, all from midwater. Spawning is seasonally synchronized (Sulak, 1977b). No commercial importance.
Species 18; in Clofnam area 5.
Recent revisions: Sulak (1977b).
Species of this genus in the program:
Bathypterois dubius
Bathypterois grallator
Bathypterois longipes
Bathypterois mediterraneus
Bathypterois phenax