Size
Maximum size 23cm (9")
Recognition Characters
Possesses photophores along the ventral portion of the body, as well as under the eyes; upward facing mouth; eyes sit on top of head; elongated dorsal and anal fins to the caudal peduncle.
Color
Silver to white with irregular, dark dorsal spots; large black area under each eye.
Habitat & Depth
Shallow ofshore banks, most common in commercial shrimping grounds. Less common inshore.
Distribution at GRNMS
Rare
Geographic Range
Virginia to Argentina
Behavior & Notes
Can generate light along its body using photophores; attach eggs to hard substrates unlike most marine fishes; both dorsal spines and opercular spine carry venom which causes painful wounds.
Synonyms