
Quick Q&A: Is there an animal with a penis on its head?
Just asking for a friend…
Asked by: Jason Goodyer, Bristol
Yes. The males of the Phallostethidae family of fish, which live in rivers in Southeast Asia, have a sex organ positioned under their chin, just behind their mouth. It consists of a rod for injecting sperm and a separate serrated hook for holding on to the female’s head, which guarantees no sperm gets lost in the strong river currents.
Read more:
- Are there any animals that prepare or cook their food?
- Are there any living things that can fly without wings?
Subscribe to BBC Science Focus Magazine for fascinating new Q&As every month and follow @sciencefocusQA on Twitter for your daily dose of fun facts.
Authors

Luis trained as a zoologist, but now works as a science and technology educator. In his spare time he builds 3D-printed robots, in the hope that he will be spared when the revolution inevitably comes.
Sponsored Deals

May Half Price Sale
- Save up to 52% when you subscribe to BBC Science Focus Magazine.
- Risk - free offer! Cancel at any time when you subscribe via Direct Debit.
- FREE UK delivery.
- Stay up to date with the latest developments in the worlds of science and technology.