medusafish

The medusafish, scientifically known as Hydrolagus colliei, is a species of cartilaginous fish belonging to the order Chimaeriformes, commonly referred to as ghost sharks or ratfish. These deep-sea dwellers are found in the northeastern Pacific Ocean, ranging from Alaska to Baja California, Mexico. They inhabit the bottom waters of continental shelves and slopes, typically at depths between 50 and 600 meters, though they have been observed in deeper waters.

Medusafish are characterized by their large, upward-facing eyes, a tapering body, and a long, whip-like tail. They possess a single, continuous dorsal fin and a small, ventrally located anal fin. Their coloration is generally dark brown to grey, often with a metallic sheen and distinctive white or yellowish spots. A prominent venomous spine is located in front of their dorsal fin, which they can erect for defense.

These fish are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs. The females deposit large, leathery egg cases in the sand, which can take several months to hatch. Medusafish are primarily benthic feeders, preying on small invertebrates such as crustaceans, mollusks, and polychaete worms, which they locate using their sensitive lateral line system and electroreception. They are generally considered a bycatch in some commercial fisheries, but they are not a target species for most.