Ridgehead

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Ridgeheads, also known as bigscales, are a family (Melamphaidae, from the Greek melanos [black] and amphi [by both sides]) of small, deep-sea beryciform fish. The family contains approximately 37 species in five genera; their distribution is worldwide, but ridgeheads are absent from the Arctic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. Although the family is one of the most widespread and plentiful of deep-sea families, none of its members are of interest to commercial fishery.

Los melánfidos o familia Melamphaidae son peces marinos incluidos en el orden Stephanoberyciformes, que se distribuyen por casi todos los océanos emnos en el Ártico y en el Mediterráneo. ​ Su nombre procede del griego: melanos (negro) + amphi (por ambos lados). ​ Aparecen por primera vez en el registro fósil en el Mioceno.