Tentacle dragonfish (Melanostomias tentaculatus) is a ray-finned fish of the family Stomiidae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in deep-water environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 24 cm. It occurs at depths between 30 and 950 metres. With a trophic level of 4.2, it is a mid-level predator. It is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
Dorsal soft rays (total): 16 - 17; Anal soft rays: 19 - 20. Body elongate and moderately slender. Short, blunt, non-protrusible snout. Long chin barbel bearing a nonterminal bulb. Barbel stem black, bulb and tentacle unpigmented .: elongated.
Behavioural data for Tentacle dragonfish is currently being reviewed.
Diet information for Tentacle dragonfish is currently being compiled.
Reproduction data for Tentacle dragonfish is currently being compiled.
Marine; bathypelagic; depth range 30 - 950 m . Deep-water; 45°N - 49°S, 98°W - 180°E known between Mauritania and Guinea.
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Haplostomias bituberatus | Regan & Trewavas | 1930 | Synonym |
| Haplostomias tentaculatus | Regan & Trewavas | 1930 | Synonym |
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 32 records indexed .
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