bythitids

Bythitids are a family of ray-finned fishes in the order Ophidiiformes. They are commonly known as the viviparous brotulas, a name reflecting their reproductive strategy. Unlike many fish that lay eggs, bythitids are viviparous, meaning the females give birth to live young. This is a relatively rare trait among fishes.

These fishes are typically found in marine environments, inhabiting a wide range of depths from shallow coastal waters to the deep sea. They are distributed globally, with species found in tropical, subtropical, and temperate oceans. Bythitids are characterized by their elongated, eel-like bodies, small eyes, and often a single, continuous dorsal and anal fin that extends to the caudal fin. Their coloration varies but often includes shades of brown, gray, or reddish-brown, providing camouflage in their respective habitats.

The diet of bythitids generally consists of small invertebrates, such as crustaceans and polychaete worms, which they forage for on the seabed. Information regarding the specific ecological roles of many bythitid species is limited, though they likely serve as both predators and prey within their ecosystems. Their viviparous nature suggests a significant investment in parental care, with offspring developing internally before birth. This family includes a diverse array of genera and species, many of which are not well-studied due to their deep-sea or elusive nature.