Lophiiformes

Lophiiformes is an order of ray-finned fish commonly known as the anglerfish. These fish are characterized by a modified dorsal fin spine that acts as a lure, used to attract prey. This lure, called an esca, often contains bioluminescent bacteria that produce light. Anglerfish are found in all oceans of the world, from the abyss to the tropics, and exhibit a wide range of sizes and appearances.

The order Lophiiformes is divided into several suborders, including Ceratioidei (deep-sea anglerfish), Lophioidei (monkfish and goosefish), and Ogcocephalioidei (batfishes). Deep-sea anglerfish are particularly notable for their extreme sexual dimorphism, where the tiny males permanently attach themselves to the much larger females, becoming parasitic. Monkfish and goosefish, on the other hand, are typically found on the seabed and are often caught by fishermen. Batfishes are distinctive for their flattened bodies and ability to "walk" on the seafloor using their pectoral fins.

Dietarily, anglerfish are carnivores, relying on their lure to attract smaller fish, crustaceans, and other invertebrates. Their large mouths and expandable stomachs allow them to consume prey that can be surprisingly large relative to their own size. Reproduction methods vary among the different groups within Lophiiformes, but many deep-sea species have elaborate mating rituals or rely on pheromones to find mates in the vast darkness of their habitat.