Congiopodids

Congiopodidae is a family of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the order Scorpaeniformes. Commonly known as podge-fish or thornyheads, these fish are characterized by their spiny bodies and often drab coloration, which aids in camouflage against their benthic habitats. They are found in the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting temperate waters.

The body of congopids is typically robust and laterally compressed, with large pectoral fins. Their heads are armed with numerous spines, a common feature in the Scorpaeniformes order. Their mouths are generally large, adapted for preying on crustaceans, mollusks, and smaller fish. Congiopodids are generally slow-moving and spend most of their time on or near the seafloor.

Reproduction in congopids usually involves external fertilization, with females laying eggs that are then fertilized by males. The larvae are pelagic, drifting in the water column before settling to the bottom as juveniles. While not heavily targeted by commercial fisheries, some species may be caught as bycatch. Their scientific classification places them within the superfamily Scorpaenoidea, indicating a close evolutionary relationship with other scorpionfish and related families.