bristletongue

The bristletongue, also known as the bristlemouth or bristletooth, refers to a group of small, deep-sea fish belonging to the family **Cyematidae** within the order **Aulopiformes**. These fish are characterized by their distinctive bristle-like teeth, which are arranged in a fringe along the edges of their jaws. This unique dental feature gives them their common name and aids in capturing prey in the dark, high-pressure environments they inhabit.

Bristletongues are typically found at depths ranging from 200 to 2,000 meters (650 to 6,500 feet) in oceans worldwide, though some species may venture even deeper. They are small to medium-sized fish, generally measuring between 10 and 30 centimeters (4 to 12 inches) in length. Their bodies are slender and elongated, often with a slightly compressed shape, and they possess a transparent or translucent appearance, which helps them blend into their surroundings.

These fish are primarily nocturnal, feeding on small crustaceans, squid, and other deep-sea organisms. Their bristle-like teeth are particularly effective for grasping slippery prey in the absence of light. Bristletongues are not well-studied due to their elusive nature and the challenges of deep-sea research, but they play a role in the ecological balance of their habitat.

Bristletongues are of little commercial importance and are rarely encountered by humans. Their deep-sea environment makes them vulnerable to changes in ocean temperature, acidity, and pollution, though their exact conservation status is not well documented. Scientists continue to explore the deep ocean to better understand these fascinating and enigmatic fish.