The Tripod fish (Bathypterois grallator) is named for its two elongated pelvic fin rays and tail, which the fish uses to balance on the ocean floor. They are deep sea, benthic fish, and they face into the current, waiting for prey to flow to them. They have very small eyes and presumably sense prey by vibration. Their front fins are very sensitive and, when prey is detected, these fins act like hands and guide the prey into their mouth.                                                        [photo of tripod fish found here]

Tripod fish are hermaphrodites; and, possibly because of sparse distribution, both sets of sex organs mature at the same time and, if they cannot find a mate, a tripod fish is capable of fertilizing its own eggs and reproducing alone.