centrolophids

Centrolophids are a family of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the order Perciformes. This family contains a single genus, Centrolophus, and several species. These fish are commonly known as medusafish or barrelfish. They are found in temperate and tropical waters around the world, typically inhabiting the open ocean. Centrolophids are characterized by their elongated, compressed bodies and continuous dorsal and anal fins. Their coloration can vary but often includes shades of brown, grey, or black, sometimes with silvery undersides. Juveniles may exhibit different patterns or colors compared to adults.

The diet of centrolophids consists mainly of jellyfish and other gelatinous zooplankton, which is reflected in their common name "medusafish." They are pelagic fish, meaning they live in the water column rather than near the seabed. While not a commercially significant group for most fisheries, they are occasionally caught as bycatch. Little is known about their reproductive habits, but like many pelagic fish, they are thought to release large numbers of eggs into the open water. Their scientific classification places them within the stromateoid suborder.