Ateleopus

Ateleopus is a genus of teleost fish belonging to the order Ateleopiformes, commonly known as ateleopodiforms. These fish are characterized by their elongated, eel-like bodies, large mouths, and small, cycloid scales. The genus currently contains only one recognized species, Ateleopus japonicus.

Ateleopus japonicus is found in the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting deep waters at depths ranging from 200 to 1000 meters. It is a demersal fish, meaning it lives near the seabed. Information regarding its diet and reproductive habits is scarce, but it is believed to be a predator, feeding on smaller fish and invertebrates.

The genus Ateleopus was first described by David Starr Jordan and John Otterbein Snyder in 1901. The etymology of the name is derived from the Greek words "atelēs" meaning imperfect and "opōpos" meaning looking, likely referring to some aspect of its morphology.

The conservation status of Ateleopus japonicus has not been formally assessed by the IUCN, but it is not considered to be of significant commercial importance. Due to its deep-water habitat, it is unlikely to be heavily impacted by fishing activities. Further research is needed to fully understand the biology and ecology of this unique genus.