leptocephali
Leptocephali are the larval forms of eels (order Anguilliformes). The term leptocephalus comes from Greek roots meaning “slender head.” These larvae are typically transparent and leaf- or ribbon-shaped, and they spend a substantial portion of their early life in the open ocean.
Morphology and development are distinctive. Leptocephali have elongated, flattened bodies with a veil-like, gelatinous skin, lack
Life cycle and ecology. Eels begin life as leptocephali after spawning in the pelagic ocean. Depending on
Distribution and significance. Leptocephali are found in the world’s oceans, reflecting the broad geographic ranges of
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