Gulf flashlightfish
📖 Overview
Gulf flashlightfish (Phthanophaneron harveyi) is a ray-finned fish of the family Anomalopidae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in benthic environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 8 cm. It occurs at depths between 32 and 36 metres. With a trophic level of 3.4, it is a low-level carnivore, feeding on invertebrates and small organisms. It is assessed as Data Deficient on the IUCN Red List. Commercially fished and consumed as food.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 5; Dorsal soft rays (total): 14; Anal spines: 2; Anal soft rays: 10. Eye prominent with subocular light organ. 13 abdominal scutes.: fusiform / normal; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Gulf flashlightfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; demersal; depth range 32 - 36 m . Subtropical known only from the Gulf of California.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Gulf flashlightfish is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Detailed nutritional data for Gulf flashlightfish is currently being compiled from USDA FoodData Central.
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Gulf flashlightfish has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔬 Full Nutritional Profile
Per 100g - Raw, per 100g - Source: USDA FoodData Central templates (generic fish average)
📊 Population Dynamics
| Year | Region | Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kryptophanaron harveyi | Rosenblatt & Montgomery | 1976 | Synonym |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 3 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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