Broad-mouth tadpole (Careproctus latiosus)

Latin name

Careproctus latiosus

Identification

The broad-mouth tadpole can be identified by the following characteristics:

59-60 vertebrae

Two pairs of weak pleural ribs

Three to four rounded thoracic radii

A body that is 4.6-4.9 times as deep as the standard length

A head that is 26-27% of the body length

A broad snout

An occipital pore and one supraorbital pore

Small eyes

A large mouth with the corner of the mouth below the center of the eye

Simple teeth

A nose that is 36-40% of the body length

A disc that is 6.3-6.6% of the body length

Features of fish fins

Dorsal soft rays (total): 52. The lower pectoral fin blade is shorter than the upper one.

Fish colouring

The Broad-mouth tadpole has a pale body and a black peritoneum.

Distribution

It is widespread in the Arctic Ocean: Norwegian Sea.

Habitat

This marine bathydemersal species inhabits depths ranging from 1,478 to 1,695 meters.

Size

Females of this species reach a maximum length of 9.8 cm.

Behavior

These fish travel by attaching themselves to the legs or backs of crabs.

Food and feeding habits

The broad-mouth tadpole feeds on small animals.

Reproduction

This fish species' reproductive biology has not yet been studied.

Fishing

This species is not commercially important.

Relationship with a person

Harmless.