Pearlfish

Carapidae

Pearlfish are marine fish belonging to the ray-finned fish family Carapidae. These fish reside in the tropical waters of the Atlantic, 🇮🇳 Indian, and 🌊 Pacific Oceans, primarily found at depths of up to 2,000 m (6,600 ft) along oceanic shelves and slopes. Pearlfish are characterized by their slender, elongated bodies devoid of scales, exhibiting a translucent appearance. Notably, their dorsal fin rays are typically shorter than their anal fin rays.

It is worth mentioning that adult Pearlfish of most species establish a symbiotic relationship within various invertebrate hosts, while others function as parasites within sea cucumbers. Conversely, the larvae of Pearlfish lead a free-living lifestyle.