Lophius spp., commonly known as monkfish or anglerfish, are marine predators found in the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. They have a distinctive flattened body, a large mouth with sharp teeth, and a unique 'fishing rod' appendage on their heads used to lure prey. They inhabit sandy or muddy ocean floors.

The genus Lophius, commonly known as monkfish or anglerfish, is primarily found in the eastern and western Atlantic Ocean. Specific species within this genus have varied distributions, but they are generally present in the coastal waters of Europe, particularly from the Barents Sea to the Strait of Gibraltar, and along the North American east coast from Newfoundland to the Gulf of Mexico. They are also found in the Mediterranean and Black Seas.

Lophius spp. inhabit temperate to cold marine waters, typically ranging from nearshore to deep sea environments. They are benthic species, residing on the sea floor at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 1,000 meters, although most commonly found between 50 and 500 meters. The temperature in these habitats can range from about 0°C to 15°C depending on the specific location and depth.

Lophius spp. are ambush predators, using their well-camouflaged bodies to blend into the sandy or muddy seabed. They have a unique adaptation of possessing a modified dorsal spine, known as the esca, which acts as a lure to attract prey. This adaptation allows them to effectively capture fish and invertebrates that come close to investigate the lure. Their ecological niche is that of a top predator in the benthic community, playing a vital role in controlling prey populations.