Agonidae -

They have large, fan-like pectoral fins that they use to "hop" or crawl along the seafloor in short bursts.

, also known as poachers or alligatorfishes , are a fascinating family of bottom-dwelling marine fish found primarily in cold, northern waters. What makes them truly special is their "heavy metal" aesthetic—their bodies are almost entirely encased in overlapping bony plates that act like a suit of armor. Quick Facts about Poachers: agonidae

Recent research on the rockhead poacher ( Bothragonus swanii ) suggests they may have a "drum" in their head—a cavernous pit used to send seismic vibrations through the rocky seabed to communicate. They have large, fan-like pectoral fins that they

Unlike most fish with soft scales, poachers have modified scales that form rigid, protective plates. Quick Facts about Poachers: Recent research on the

They range from the tiny pixie poacher (only 2 cm) to the much larger dragon poacher , which can reach up to 42 cm. The post-cranial body armor of the armored Agonidae fishes