❃ Anglerfish are among the deep sea’s most extraordinary predators, famous for the fishing-rod-like structure that gives them their name. In many deep-sea species, a modified dorsal-fin spine extends above the head and ends in a lure called the esca. Hidden in near-total darkness, the anglerfish can use this luminous beacon to attract curious prey within striking distance.
❃ Survival in the deep ocean means taking advantage of whatever meal comes along. Many anglerfish have enormous mouths, flexible jaws, and long inward-pointing teeth that help prevent captured prey from escaping. Their bodies can also accommodate surprisingly substantial meals—an important advantage in an environment where the next feeding opportunity may be difficult to predict.
❃ Deep-sea anglerfish are just as remarkable when it comes to reproduction. In several families, the males are tiny compared with the females and locate potential mates using highly developed senses. In some species, a male permanently attaches to a female and eventually fuses with her tissues, becoming dependent on her bloodstream. From glowing lures to extraordinary partnerships, anglerfish are perfectly adapted to one of the darkest habitats on Earth.