Ceratias uranoscopus

Ceratias uranoscopus Murray in Thompson, 1877 is a species of actinopterygii belonging to the family Ceratiidae (order Lophiiformes).

Common name. In English this species is commonly known as the stargazing seadevil.

Taxonomy. The scientific name Ceratias uranoscopus Murray in Thompson, 1877 places this species within the actinopterygii lineage, among the most diverse vertebrates on Earth.

Description & ecology. As a member of Lophiiformes, Ceratias uranoscopus exhibits the group's characteristic adaptations: They are anglerfishes with a modified dorsal spine (illicium) used as a lure, often benthic or deep-sea. Its biology reflects the demands of its particular habitat and life history within the family Ceratiidae.

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

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