Melamphaidae

Melamphaidae is a family of deep-sea ray-finned fish, commonly known as bigscales or crestfishes. These fish are found in oceans worldwide, typically at depths ranging from 200 to 2,000 meters. They are characterized by their large, ctenoid scales, which give them their common name. Melamphaids generally have a moderately compressed body, a large head with a terminal mouth, and small, numerous teeth. Their dorsal fin is usually long and may have a distinct crest.

The family Melamphaidae includes several genera, such as Melamphaes, Poromitra, and Scopeloberyx. Species within this family vary in size, with most adult specimens measuring between 10 and 30 centimeters in length. Their coloration is often dark, ranging from brown to black, which aids in camouflage in the dimly lit deep-sea environment. They are primarily carnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates and planktonic organisms.

Reproduction in Melamphaidae is thought to involve pelagic eggs and larvae, which drift in the upper water layers before descending to deeper habitats as they mature. Little is known about their specific life cycles or behaviors due to the challenges of studying them in their natural environment. They are not commercially important and are rarely encountered by humans, primarily being collected during scientific oceanographic surveys. Their presence is an indicator of mesopelagic and bathypelagic environments.