Eptatretus deani

Eptatretus deani (Evermann and Goldsborough, 1907) is a species of myxini belonging to the family Myxinidae (order Myxiniformes).

Common name. In English this species is commonly known as the black hagfish.

Taxonomy. The scientific name Eptatretus deani (Evermann and Goldsborough, 1907) places this species within the myxini lineage, among the most diverse vertebrates on Earth.

Description & ecology. As a member of Myxiniformes, Eptatretus deani exhibits the group's characteristic adaptations: They are jawless hagfishes, eel-shaped marine scavengers famous for copious slime. Its biology reflects the demands of its particular habitat and life history within the family Myxinidae.

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

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