description Ragfish Overview
The ragfish, Icosteus aenigmaticus, is a large, gelatinous-bodied marine fish found in the North Pacific Ocean. It is the sole living species commonly placed in the family Icosteidae, and adults retain a largely cartilaginous skeleton instead of the extensively ossified bones typical of most teleost fishes. Juveniles and adults differ markedly in appearance, and the species is encountered from offshore waters to considerable depths rather than being a common coastal food fish.
help Ragfish FAQ
What is the scientific name of the ragfish?
The ragfish is Icosteus aenigmaticus. It is a large marine fish of the North Pacific Ocean.
Where does the ragfish live?
Ragfish are found in the North Pacific. They are marine fish associated with cold northern Pacific waters rather than tropical reefs.
Why is the ragfish unusual?
Adults have a gelatinous body and retain a largely cartilaginous skeleton. That anatomy differs from the heavily ossified skeletons found in many other adult bony fish.
Is the ragfish the only species in its family?
Icosteus aenigmaticus is the sole living species commonly placed in the family Icosteidae. Its family-level isolation is one reason the fish is notable to zoologists.
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