Lizardfishes and Relatives: Aulopiformes

Physical characteristics: Tripodfish have a long, thin body and reach a length of about 7 inches (18 centimeters). The pectoral, pelvic, and tail fin rays are all very long. When erect, these rays act as a tripod on which the fish balances itself on the bottom. Tripodfish are bronze to pale with gray on the head and belly and along the lower back.

Geographic range: Tripodfish live on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.

Habitat: Tripodfish live on sand and rubble in the deep part of the ocean.

Diet: Tripodfish eat smaller fishes and crustaceans that they ambush on the bottom. Crustaceans (krus-TAY-shuns) are water-dwelling animals that have jointed legs and a hard shell but no backbone.

Tripodfish can "walk" on the bottom using their tripod. (Illustration by Patricia Ferrer. Reproduced by permission.)

Behavior and reproduction: Tripodfish can "walk" on the bottom using their tripod. To reproduce they act as both sexes at the same time. The eggs and larvae drift in open water.

Tripodfish and people: Tripodfish are of no commercial importance but are a curiosity of science.

Conservation status: Tripodfish are not threatened or endangered. ∎