anomalopidae

noun

Meaning

A family of marine fish known for having large, light-emitting organs below their eyes, commonly referred to as flashlight fish.

Examples

  • The anomalopidae possess specialized organs that host bioluminescent bacteria.
  • Researchers studying the anomalopidae discovered that these fish blink their light organs to confuse predators.

Synonyms: flashlight fish, lanternfish, benthopelagic fish, bioluminescent fish