Nyctiphanes simplex
Distribution:
Occurs west of Baja California, in the Gulf of California and off southern California. During strong El Niño’s it has been reported as far north as 45º N.
Habitat:
To about 250 m depth, in shelf, slope and coastal waters.
Size:
8 - 16 mm
Diet:
Microplankton.
Predators:
Important prey for fish, birds and whales.
Useful Facts or Characters:
Eyes are large and round, lack a rostrum and dorsal abdominal spines; bear a leaflet on the lappet of the first antenna.
Natural History:
Large surface aggregations have been observed in the Gulf of California.