The Zoarcidae family, commonly known as eelpouts, consists of fish primarily found in cold marine environments. They are characterized by their elongated bodies, small fins, and a lack of a swim bladder, which allows them to thrive in deep waters. Eelpouts are typically bottom-dwellers, often residing in rocky or sandy substrates. These fish are distributed across the northern hemisphere, particularly in the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Zoarcidae species play a role in the marine ecosystem as both predators and prey, feeding on small invertebrates and serving as food for larger fish and marine mammals.