The status of Benthalbella infans (Pisces: Myctophoidei), its development, bioluminescence, general biology and distribution in the eastern NOrth Atlantic

摘要: Evidence of comparative and developmental morphology is presented from 99 specimens the Atlantic Indian Oceans to establish conspecificity Benthalbella dubius with B. irfans. The development species described early post-larva (12.5 mm) through metamorphosis (60–80 sexually mature adult (112–143 mm). infans shown be a hermaphrodite simultaneous maturation ova spermatozoa, in common other alepisauroid fishes. A fecundity estimate gave 2300 ova. histology light organs are described, at cellular sub-cellular levels, luminous tissue derived muscle blocks. significance these findings discussed, properties bioluminescent emission defined measures intensity recorded. Stomach contents were analysed. changes body eye orientation ossification discussed relation behaviour specifically that feeding. horizontal vertical distribution considered collections made eastern North Atlantic. possibility racial differences within although no major niorphological observed between Ocean specimens. diurnal depth indicated (90–1500 m); post-larvae occupy shallower reaches range, descending advancing development. migration was only adults juveniles.