Pacific Flatnose

Pacific Flatnose (Antimora microlepis)

A Pacific Flatnose swims above a sheet flow (lava) on the summit of Axial Seamount. NSF-OOI/UW/CSSF; Dive R1712; V14

The Pacific Flatnose comes from a family of cod-like fish, which are only distinguishable by their skeletal structures and swim bladders. They have short heads, pointed snouts, and chin barbels. They’re coloring is variable ranging from pale blue-gray or olive green to dark violet or black. Their fins are darker on the outer edges.

Pacific Flatnose feed on bottom-dwelling invertebrates. Several Pacifc Flatnose have been observed at Axial Caldera. They are as large as 75cm (29.5in) in length and weigh up to 2,100g (4.6lbs).

References:
http://eol.org/pages/993233/details