Flashlight Fish [Photostomias]

Description

Photostomias is a genus in the Viperfish family, distinguished by its unique adaptation for life in the deep sea. These fishes are equipped with specialized light-producing organs (photophores) located under their eyes, which are thought to be used for communication, attracting mates, or luring prey. Their bodies are slender and elongated, with large mouths and sharp teeth similar to other viperfish. Photostomias species tend to inhabit mid to deep pelagic zones and are rarely seen by humans. Their bioluminescence is a key adaptation for survival in the perpetual darkness of their deep-sea environment.

Species

Splitfin flashlight fish [Anomalops katoptron]

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Eyelight fish [Photoblepharon palpebratum]

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Jamal's flashlight fish [Photoblepharon steinitzi]

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Taxonomy