Benthic fish are species that live on or near the bottom of oceans, rivers, and lakes. They are adapted to life in these environments, often having flattened bodies that help them stay close to the substrate. Common examples of benthic fish include flounder, catfish, and gobies, which feed on small invertebrates and organic matter found on the seafloor. These fish play a crucial role in their ecosystems by helping to recycle nutrients and maintain the health of the benthic habitat. Their presence can indicate the overall health of aquatic environments, making them important for marine biology and ecology studies.