Scientists, aboard the CSIRO research vessel (RV) Investigator, have explored the deep-sea and ocean abyss, discovering amazing and unique creatures of the deep.

The iconic tripodfish (Bathypterois grallator), are from the Ipnopidae family, often called spiderfish: They prop themselves high off the seafloor on their stilt-like fins. Like most members of the spiderfish family, tripodfish have reduced eyes. To feed, they face into the current, extending their elongated pectoral fubs forward 'feeling' for prey as it drifts by. They filter suspended food particles with their comb-like gill rakers.

It can be lonely on the ocean floor so tripodfish are hermaphrodites - meaning they have both male and female sexual organs, so don't need to find a mate.

The Royal Australian Mint celebrates these journeys of scientific endeavour, and the wondorous creatures they discovered with this 2023 Mintmark and Privy Mark Four-Coin Set - secure yours today!