Aulorhynchids

Aulorhynchids are a family of small, slender, ray-finned fish found in marine environments. They are characterized by their elongated bodies, tubular snouts, and the presence of a series of small spines preceding the dorsal fin. The family contains only one extant genus, Aulorhynchus, and a single species, Aulorhynchus flavidus, commonly known as the corallike stickleback. These fish inhabit the temperate waters of the North Pacific Ocean, typically found in kelp forests, seagrass beds, and rocky areas. They are relatively small, reaching a maximum length of around 20 centimeters. Aulorhynchids are carnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates such as crustaceans and plankton. Their reproductive behavior is interesting, with males building nests from algae and defending them until the eggs hatch. Fossil evidence suggests the existence of other aulorhynchid species in the past, indicating a broader evolutionary history for this family. While not commercially fished, they play a role in their ecosystem as both predator and prey.