A rare deep-sea cartilaginous fish species belonging to the Holocephali class, characterized by unique morphological features typical of chimaeras.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Deep oceanic environments, typically found at depths between 500-1500 meters in the Pacific Ocean, preferring cold, dark marine ecosystems with rocky or soft bottom substrates.
Ecological Role
Plays a role in deep-sea food webs as a mid-level predator, contributes to marine biodiversity and ecosystem balance in deep ocean environments.
Morphology
SKIN COATSmooth, scaleless skin with a grayish to dark brown coloration, providing camouflage in deep-sea environments
LIMBS WINGSPectoral fins adapted for deep-sea maneuvering, single dorsal fin with potential defensive spine
HEAD SENSORYLarge electroreceptive sensory system, prominent ampullae of Lorenzini for detecting prey and navigating dark marine environments
BODY STRUCTUREElongated, shark-like body with a distinctive chimaera head shape, cartilaginous skeleton, approximately 50-70 cm total length
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Montanoceratops
