Cyclopteridae

Cyclopteridae is a small family of marine fishes commonly known as lumpsuckers. Members are characterized by a globose body, rough skin lacking large scales, and a ventral suction disc formed from the pelvic fins that they use to cling to rocks, kelp, and other substrates in cold-temperate and Arctic waters. They have a short, broad head, small eyes, and a dorsal fin and fin arrangement typical of scorpaeniform fishes; coloration is variable, often brown or mottled to blend with the surroundings.

Distribution and habitat: Lumpers are found in cold northern seas, including the North Atlantic and North Pacific. They inhabit shallow coastal areas, rocky reefs, and kelp beds, and may venture to deeper continental shelves.

Biology and reproduction: Eggs are laid on substrate in gelatinous masses. In many species, the male guards and aerates the eggs during incubation, and the fry emerge ready to swim. Diet consists mainly of small crustaceans, mollusks, and other invertebrates, with occasional small fish.

Taxonomy and species: The family contains a few species, with the common lumpfish Cyclopterus lumpus being the best known; other species occur in North Pacific and Arctic regions. The taxonomy has varied, but Cyclopteridae is recognized as a distinct family within the broader scorpionfish-like group by many classifications.

Human use and conservation: Lumpfish and especially their roe are fished commercially; lumpfish roe is marketed as a caviar substitute in many regions. Some species face pressure from pelagic and coastal fisheries; there is no widespread extinction risk, but local populations may be affected by habitat degradation and overfishing.