Astronesthidae
by R. H. Gibbs, Jr.
Small to moderate deepwater fishes (to about 40 cm), the body more or less elongate; snout short. Mouth large, with strong, often fang-like teeth; barbel present under chin (rudimentary in Astronesthes micropogon). Dorsal fin mostly or entirely before anal fin, its origin at or behind midpoint of body; dorsal adipose fin present (except in Rhadinesthes). No scales; body usually black, sometimes iridescent silver on flanks. Two prominent rows of photophores on body, the upper (OA or lateral row) comprising pre-pelvic (OV) and post-pelvic (VAL) series of photophores, the lower (IC or ventral row) comprising pre-pectoral (IP), pre-pelvic (PV) and post-pelvic (VAV) series and a row between the lateral and ventral rows, ending at tail (AC); PV curving towards pelvic insertion not continuous with VAV; numerous small photophores on most of body and head, most dense ventrally; a single or double post-orbital photophore; patches of larger luminous tissue on head or body in some species.
Fairly common in deep oceanic waters; mesopelagic, usually living deeper than 500 m during the day. Some individuals, especially smaller ones, migrating to near-surface or even surface waters at night. Feeding habits poorly known, food including midwater fishes and crustaceans.
Genera 5; in Clofnam area 4.
Recent revisions: Regan and Trewavas (1929), Gibbs (1964), both out of date; work in progress by Gibbs.