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Histiobranchus facts for kids

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Histiobranchus
Histiobranchus bathybius1.jpg
Scientific classification
Kingdom:
Phylum:
Class:
Order:
Family:
Synaphobranchidae
Genus:
Histiobranchus

T. N. Gill, 1883
Species

See text

Histiobranchus is a group of deep-sea eels. These fascinating fish live far down in the ocean. They belong to a family of eels called Synaphobranchidae. This family is known for its unique deep-water eels.

Histiobranchus bathybius
Histiobranchus bathybius is one species in this group.

What are Eels?

Eels are long, snake-like fish. They are found in many parts of the world. Most eels live in the ocean. Some can also be found in fresh water. Eels are known for their smooth, slimy skin. They do not have scales like many other fish.

The Histiobranchus Genus

A genus is a group of very similar living things. The Histiobranchus genus includes several types of eels. These eels are special because they live in the deep ocean. They are often found in dark, cold waters.

Species of Histiobranchus

Currently, scientists know of three main species in the Histiobranchus genus:

  • Histiobranchus australis (discovered by Regan in 1913)
  • Histiobranchus bathybius (also known as the Deepwater arrowtooth eel, discovered by Günther in 1877)
  • Histiobranchus bruuni (also known as Bruun's cutthroat eel, discovered by Castle in 1964)

Each of these species has adapted to life in the deep sea. They have special features to help them survive.

Where They Live

Histiobranchus eels are found in the deep parts of the ocean. This includes areas far below where sunlight reaches. The deep sea is a challenging place to live. It has high pressure and very little food. These eels are well-suited to this extreme environment.

See also

In Spanish: Histiobranchus para niños

More Information

  • "Histiobranchus". FishBase. Ed. Ranier Froese and Daniel Pauly. June 2011 version. N.p.: FishBase, 2011.
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