Lophiodes gracilimanus

Lophiodes gracilimanus (Alcock, 1899) is a species of actinopterygii belonging to the family Lophiidae (order Lophiiformes).

Common name. In English this species is commonly known as the Malabar monkfish.

Taxonomy. The scientific name Lophiodes gracilimanus (Alcock, 1899) places this species within the actinopterygii lineage, among the most diverse vertebrates on Earth.

Description & ecology. As a member of Lophiiformes, Lophiodes gracilimanus 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 Lophiidae.

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

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