Monstrous Anglerfish Lurking in Deep Ocean Waters

The anglerfish is a marine creature of the order Lophiiformes, exhibiting a long dorsal thin ray, suspended over its mouth, which serves as a lure to attract prey. More precisely, the fleshy growth from this bony fish’s head acts like a lure similar to the one found in angling. It basically looks like a fish hook.

The anglerfish also exhibits spikes on top of its head, presumably as a defense mechanism. Its spikes match its numerous needle-like teeth.

It can be claimed that the anglerfish isn’t exactly “pretty”, but rather a source of nightmares, to say the least.

This particular marine creature was discovered as a result of a scientific expedition in the northern Gulf of Mexico, 5.000 feet below sea level. Initially, the scientists were investigating the impact of oil spills on deep sea life.

Biologist Tracey Sutton, of Nova Southeastern University, reported to the press that the one thing she knew, as a researcher, was that there was so much more we could learn about our oceans and ocean creatures. She continued by stating that every time they went on a deep-sea research journey, there was a fair chance of seeing something new and intriguing, never before spotted.

She confesses that life at those depths is truly amazing and that every adventurous scientific expedition is an opportunity to learn about our vast planet and the creatures which call it home.

Could it be claimed that each time a sea expedition takes place in the very depth of the ocean, researchers are inclined to discover more and more not-so-visually-enticing creatures? Moreover, even researchers have labeled the anglerfish as “downright scary looking.”

Nevertheless, marine fish such as the anglerfish have been enduring and coping with 2.200 pounds of pressure per square inch during their lifetime. The only light-source at such depths comes from some luminous creatures such as particular sharks, for instance, which biochemically generate their own light source. The fight for survival and food in this habitat is excruciating and never-ending.

It can be reported that deep-sea anglerfish are odd and illusive creatures, very rarely observed in their natural habitat. Fewer than half a dozen have ever been captured on film. A nickname of the angler would be: the black sea-devil.

Their fishing pole displays a luminous tip, which is used to attract prey. Basically, they flash the light to attract their “victims” and draw them near the angler’s mouth.

The shape of the angler’s body reveals whether they’re male or female, as the males are much smaller, and they lack the fishing pole. The male’s sole responsibility seems to be to find a potential female with which to mate as soon as possible.

Anglerfish rely more on sensing the movements of other deep sea animals, than on vision.

The deep sea is filled with surprising and remarkable creatures and we can only imagine what discoveries are yet to be made in this vast realm.

Photo Credits www.montereybayaquarium.org