Aphyonidae

Aphyonidae is a family of eel-like fishes in the order Ophidiiformes. They are found in tropical and subtropical waters throughout the world. They are deep-sea fishes, living between and depth.

==Description and biology== Aphyonids are small fishes, typically about long when fully grown. They have transparent, gelatinous skin, which lacks any scales. The dorsal, caudal and anal fins are united into a single ribbon. Most species are neotenic, showing a number of features as adults that are more commonly associated with fish larvae. For example, the skeleton is only partially calcified, and the muscles and gills are underdeveloped. The eyes, nasal organ and lateral line are also reduced, and they lack a swim bladder.