midshipman fish en · NOUN
Etymology
From midshipman + fish, after their prey-attracting photophores, which are said to resemble the buttons of a naval uniform.
Meanings
- 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.
Forms
| Spelling | Features | Labels | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| midshipman fish | Number=Plur | lexicographic | |
| midshipman fishes | Number=Plur | lexicographic |
Synonyms
midshipman (toadfish of genus Porichthys)
Translations (2)
ru ры́ба-ми́чман (toadfish of genus Porichthys) · fi kadettikala (toadfish of genus Porichthys)