Cripplefin Lanternfish

14-16 AO photophores; 9-12 tooth patches on the lower limb of the second gill arch; 34-38 lateral line organs (Ref. 36121). Pectoral fins relatively long and well developed in juveniles (easily visible in individuals up to about 6 cm SL), progressively becoming relatively shorter, with thicker rays, and covered by skin (in various stages of becoming vestigial between 5-8 cm SL). Adults (greater than 8 cm SL) with vestigial rays buried in skin and not externally visible unless skin abraded or otherwise torn (Ref. 36121).

Oceanodromous. Migrating within oceans typically between spawning and different feeding areas, as tunas do. Migrations should be cyclical and predictable and cover more than 100 km.

Dorsal spines (total): 0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 13 - 16; Analspines: 0; Analsoft rays: 15 - 19; Vertebrae: 36 - 38

Oceanic (Ref. 4479) and mesopelagic (Ref. 75154). Usually found below 500 m at night but shallower in upwelling regions.