Dragonfish are among the deep sea’s most fascinating and fearsome-looking creatures.
Found at depths of up 4,500 metres, these fish thrive in total darkness, and despite their small size – usually around 15–25cm (and up to 50cm) – they are top predators in their environment.
Most species have a huge mouth relative to their body and fang-like teeth that curve backwards to trap prey. Some species even have a luminescent lure dangling from their chins that they use to entice their victims.
Their bodies are often very dark, making them almost invisible in the deep ocean – as seen (or not) in this rare footage from the Pacific Ocean.
Main image: Dragonfish. Credit: Getty
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