Genus Gempylus refers to a group of marine fish species that belong to the family Gempylidae. Some common synonyms for the genus Gempylus include oilfish, snake mackerel, and smooth-tail mackerel. Oilfish is a popular name for the species due to its high oil content, which can lead to digestive issues if consumed in large amounts. Snake mackerel refers to the elongated body shape of the species, while smooth-tail mackerel refers to the sleek appearance of the fish, which has a slender, streamlined body that helps it move quickly through the water. While Gempylus species are often used in commercial fisheries, their high oil content makes them less common in cuisine.