Family Batracoididae - toadfishes

This family of marine and brackish water fishes is characterized by dorsal eyes, large mouth and head, and pelvic fins under the throat. They are bottom dwellers ranging from shallow inshore areas to deep waters.

Plainfin midshipman- Porichthys notatus

Remarks: Just a few specimens of this bioluminescent fish have been taken from the bay. These are the fish that make a wide array of sounds and cause problems each spring for those living in house boats in Sausalito.

Identification: Large, flattened head with a spine on each gill cover. Rows of small spots (photophores or light organs) along sides and belly. Brown to purple above, silvery on sides, and sometimes yellowish on belly. About 38cm maximum length.

Range: Ranges from the Gulf of California to Sitka, Alaska from bays out to depths of about 90 m.