Linophryne

Linophryne is a genus of deep-sea anglerfishes found in the family Linophrynidae. The genus was first described by the American ichthyologist Leonard Peter Schultz in 1953. Linophryne species are characterized by their elongated, slender bodies and distinctive bioluminescent lure, which is used for attracting prey in the dark depths of the ocean. The genus includes several species, each with unique adaptations for life in the abyssal zone.

The most well-known species in the genus is Linophryne arborifera, commonly known as the tree anglerfish. This species is notable for its elaborate bioluminescent lure, which resembles a small tree with branches and leaves. The lure is used to attract prey, such as small crustaceans and fish, which are then drawn into the anglerfish's mouth.

Linophryne species are typically found at depths of 1,000 to 4,000 meters, where they inhabit the abyssal plain and other deep-sea environments. They are known for their slow growth rates and long lifespans, with some species living for over 100 years. The genus is of particular interest to scientists studying the evolution of bioluminescence and the adaptations of deep-sea organisms to life in extreme environments.