Cryptopsaras couesii

Cryptopsaras couesii, Triplewart Seadevil. Source: Pietsch and Orr (2007).
Cryptopsaras couesii, Triplewart Seadevil.
Source: Pietsch and Orr (2007).
Ceratiidae, Seadevils. Source: FAO 2002.
Ceratiidae, Seadevils.
Source: FAO 2002.
FamilyScientific NameAuthorYearCommon Name
CeratiidaeCryptopsaras couesiiGill1883Triplewart Seadevil

Cryptopsaras couesii

Unique Characteristics: First dorsal-fin spine (illicium) shorter than standard length, bearing a terminal
bioluminescent bait (esca). 2 or 3 caruncles (modified dorsal-fin soft rays, each bearing a bioluminescent
gland) on the dorsal midline of the trunk just anterior to the origin of the soft dorsal fin (often inconspicuous in large adult females). Adult males parasitic on females; eyes large, bowl-shaped, directed laterally.

Similar Species: None

Reference:

Pietsch, T.W. 1986. Systematics and distribution of bathypelagic Anglerfishes of the Family Ceratiidae (Order: Lophiiformes). Copeia 1986 (2):479-493.

Pietsch, T.W. and J. W. Orr. 2007. Phylogenetic relationships of Deep-sea Anglerfishes of the suborder
Ceratioidei (Teleostei: Lophiiformes) based on morphology. Copeia 2007 (1):1-34.