Faceless cusk explained

The faceless cusk (Typhlonus nasus) is a species of cusk-eel. It is the only species of the monotypic genus Typhlonus. It is found in the Indian and Pacific Oceans at depths from about 3935to. This species grows to 46.5cm (18.3inches) in standard length.

The fish is named after its appearance due to having an extremely reduced "face". The mouth is located on the underside of the head. The sides of the head do not display any visible eyes. However, Typhlonus nasus does possess eyes, which can be seen deep beneath the skin in small-sized specimens.[1] It also possess two pairs of large nostrils towards the front of the head above the mouth.[2] The species has discernible gill covers on each side of the head and large deciduous scales.[2] It also has reduced dorsal and anal fins which are dark in colors and are fused at the end, as a replacement for a lacking caudal fin. The fins of this fish are black in color, with a very pale body.

Bibliography

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Long-Lost Faceless Fish Shows Up Near Australia. Deamer. Kacey. 14 June 2017 . www.LiveScience.com. Purch. 6 June 2018.
  2. Web site: The Faceless Cusk . . Oz Fish Net. Museums of Victoria. 11 June 2018.