Article
Article
Lophiiformes
Article By:
Bailey, Reeve M. Division of Fishes, Museum of Zoology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Last reviewed:August 2020
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1036/1097-8542.389400
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A modified order of actinopterygian fishes, including the anglerfishes and their relatives. The order Lophiiformes (class Actinopterygii), also known as the Pediculati, is a highly modified group of ray-finned fishes and is thought to have been derived from a stock close to the Batrachoidiformes, or toadfishes, at least as early as the Eocene Epoch. The first dorsal fin of individual members is reduced to a few flexible rays, of which the first is placed on the top of the head and bears a terminal bulb or tassel and functions as a fishing lure (see illustration). The epiotics are large and meet behind the supraoccipital bone. There are no ribs or epipleurals, and the gill opening is small and placed far back. Pelvic fins, if present, are thoracic, and the pectoral girdle is notably modified. See also: Actinopterygii; Batrachoidiformes; Osteichthyes; Teleostei
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