Gigantactis gargantua

Gigantactis gargantua Bertelsen, Pietsch and Lavenberg, 1981 is a species of actinopterygii belonging to the family Gigantactinidae (order Lophiiformes).

Taxonomy. The scientific name Gigantactis gargantua Bertelsen, Pietsch and Lavenberg, 1981 places this species within the actinopterygii lineage, among the most diverse vertebrates on Earth.

Description & ecology. As a member of Lophiiformes, Gigantactis gargantua 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 Gigantactinidae.

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

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