Psychrolutes phrictus

Psychrolutes phrictus Stein and Bond, 1978 is a species of actinopterygii belonging to the family Psychrolutidae (order Scorpaeniformes).

Taxonomy. The scientific name Psychrolutes phrictus Stein and Bond, 1978 places this species within the actinopterygii lineage, among the most diverse vertebrates on Earth.

Description & ecology. As a member of Scorpaeniformes, Psychrolutes phrictus exhibits the group's characteristic adaptations: They are bottom-dwelling, often spiny and venomous 'mail-cheeked' fishes (scorpionfishes, sculpins). Its biology reflects the demands of its particular habitat and life history within the family Psychrolutidae.

Distribution. The species occurs within the natural range of its lineage; precise localities and depth preferences are documented in the taxonomic literature for Psychrolutidae.

Human relevance. Like many fishes, it may be of interest to fisheries, aquaculture, the aquarium trade, or conservation, depending on its abundance and distribution.