This taxon traditionally a subfamily of Gadidae, recently elevated to family rank (Markle, 1989). Larvae with well-developed and pigmented pelvic fins from early flexion stage. Larvae of SE Atlantic Gaidropsarus capensis heavily pigmented during all stages of development (Brownell, 1979). Pelvic fins below pectoral fins on lateral side of body, latter still membranous when former appears (Gaidropsarus capensis). SW Atlantic Urophycis spp. with similar larval forms (John, 1975; Phonlor, 1973).
Table Gadiformes
22 geographic zones