Ctenochasma

Ctenochasma is a genus of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Ctenochasmatidae, which is part of the order Perciformes. The genus is monotypic, containing only one known species, Ctenochasma galilaeum. This fish is native to the eastern Atlantic Ocean, where it is found in the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea. Ctenochasma galilaeum is a small, deep-water species, typically inhabiting depths of 200 to 1,000 meters. It is characterized by its elongated, cylindrical body and a distinctive, elongated dorsal fin that extends almost the entire length of its body. The fish has a small mouth filled with tiny teeth, and its scales are small and cycloid. Ctenochasma galilaeum feeds on small crustaceans and other invertebrates. The species is of particular interest to ichthyologists due to its unique morphology and deep-water habitat. Despite its relatively small size, it plays a role in the food web of its deep-sea environment. The genus Ctenochasma is not considered to be of significant commercial or ecological importance, but it remains an important subject of study for understanding the diversity and adaptations of deep-sea fish.