midshipman fish
Meanings
noun
- Any species of the genus Porichthys of batrachoid toadfishes, typically nocturnal, distinguished by photophores and four lateral lines, and noted for a hum produced by males during the breeding season.
Word forms
Etymology
From midshipman + fish, after their prey-attracting photophores, which are said to resemble the buttons of a naval uniform.
Synonyms
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