Family Saccopharyngidae Phylum Chordata Rank Genus | Suborder Saccopharyngoidei Scientific name Saccopharynx Higher classification Saccopharyngidae Order Saccopharyngiformes | |
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Similar Saccopharyngiformes, Pelican eel, Saccopharynx ampullaceus, Eurypharynx, Monognathus |
Saccopharynx
Saccopharynx is a genus of deep-sea eel-like fishes with large mouths, distensible stomachs and long, scaleless bodies. It is the only genus in the family Saccopharyngidae. The name is from Latin saccus meaning "sack" and Greek φάρυγξ, pharynx.
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Like other saccopharyngiforms, fishes in this genus are known as gulpers or gulper eels.
Typically black in hue, these creatures can reach lengths up to 2 meters (approximately 6.5 feet) and have been discovered at depths up to 1,800 meters (around 6,000 feet). Their tails are distinguished by a glowing, bulbous structure. While the precise function of this organ remains uncertain, it is speculated to serve as a lure, akin to the esca found in anglerfish.

Anguila depredadora con cola luminosa saccopharynx
Species
The ten species are:



References
Saccopharynx Wikipedia(Text) CC BY-SA