The Deep Sea Anglerfish

The deep sea anglerfish, or Ceratias hobolli, is a species of fish whose females utilizes bioluminescence. There are many types of anglerfish living throughout the ocean, but the deep sea variety of the anglerfish lives at depths up 2,297-3,281 feet below sea level. Due to the lack of light that can reach that depth, the deep sea anglerfish has evolved a specialized glowing lure. This "fishing rod" contains millions of light-producing photobacteria that are collected from the environment, and generate bioluminescence for the anglerfish. Thus the deep sea anglerfish must rely on the symbiotic relationship with the bacteria, as it cannot perform bioluminescence itself. Anglerfish hunt by waving objects in front of its mouth that its prey is attracted to. The glowing lure of the deep sea anglerfish draws in prey with its attractive light, bringing them towards its impressive jaws. The darkness of the deep sea makes it difficult to locate much of anything, and the glowing fishing lure of the deep sea anglerfish is perfect for drawing in prey and potential mates alike.


By: Brittney Carberry