Maurolicus muelleri and several species of Argyropelecus are common representatives in plankton samples. Eggs of Maurolicus muelleri easily identifiable by sculptured chorion, with outer portion a network of polygons. Larvae elongate, without pigmentation in early stages, gut extending to 53-56% of body length. In later stages head and anterior region of body become much deeper, with aggregations of melanophores below swim bladder and on caudal region (Maurolicus muelleri). Watson (1996b) discusses identification of hatchet fish. Pre-flexion and flexion larvae of the hatchet fish Argyropelecus hemigymnus characterized by straight gut separated from lower margin of body, blunt snout, lack of pigmentation.
Table Sternoptychidae
22 geographic zones