Larvae characterized by an elongate body with caudal and pelvic fins reduced or absent. Myomere counts large (more than 100). Gut in pre-flexion stage short, but elongate during flexion and post-flexion stages. Small larvae of Trichiurus lepturus lack pigment on ventral trunk and tail. With growth, single row of melanophores developes along dorsal body margin (Trichiurus lepturus).
Table Trichiuridae
22 geographic zones