Linophrynidae

Linophrynidae is a family of marine ray-finned fish in the order Lophiiformes, commonly known as the Linophrynid anglerfishes or netdevil anglerfishes. These deep-sea dwellers are characterized by their extreme sexual dimorphism, a common trait among anglerfish. The females are significantly larger and possess the characteristic bioluminescent lure, or esca, which they use to attract prey in the dark depths. The males are much smaller and often parasitic, attaching themselves to the female and becoming a sperm-producing appendage.

Linophrynid anglerfishes are found in tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide, inhabiting the bathyal and abyssal zones. They are typically found at depths ranging from 500 to over 5,000 meters. Their diet consists mainly of smaller fish and invertebrates that are drawn to their glowing lure. The family contains several genera, including Linophryne, which gives the family its name. Their reproductive strategy, with the diminutive males fusing to the females, is one of the most remarkable adaptations in the animal kingdom.