Scopelomorpha

fish superorder

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July 15, 2026

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The term Scopelomorpha refers to a superorder of bony fishes. This group is part of the larger Teleostei infraclass, which encompasses advanced bony fishes. The Scopelomorpha superorder currently contains only one order, Myctophiformes, which includes lanternfishes. These are typically small, deep-sea fish, usually between 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 inches) in length. They are characterized by compressed heads and bodies, a present adipose fin, and usually a large, terminal mouth. The two families within this order are Myctophidae (lanternfishes) and Neoscopelidae. Many lanternfishes possess bioluminescent organs. They are found in marine environments worldwide and have a fossil record dating back to the Cretaceous period.1

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Annotated classification
Superorder Scopelomorpha Order Myctophiformes (lantern fishes) Head and body compressed, adipose fin present, mouth usually large and terminal. Mostly small fishes 10–15 cm (roughly 4–6 inches). 2 families of deep-sea pelagic and bathypelagic fishes, the Myctophidae, or lantern fishes (about 32 genera and 235 species)—with
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Superorder Scopelomorpha Order Myctophiformes (lantern fishes) Head and body compressed, adipose fin present, mouth usually large and terminal. Mostly small fishes 10–15 cm (roughly 4–6 inches). 2 families of deep-sea pelagic and bathypelagic fishes, the Myctophidae, or lantern fishes (about 32 genera and 235 species)—with
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