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312 views • December 22, 2021

The Elusive Fanfin Seadevil #shorts

Natural World Facts
This is a fanfin anglerfish. Nearly 3km down in the sunless depths, it spreads its web of glowing orbs out into the water in the hopes of luring unsuspecting prey. But unlike many of the deep’s bioluminescent inhabitants, this anglerfish is not able to produce its own light. Instead, it allows light-producing bacteria called Photobacterium to move into the orbs, as well as the larger main lure, or esca, that protrudes from its head. It’s an example of symbiosis. In return for protection from predators, the bacteria provide the anglerfish with the tool it needs to attract prey. To many animals, these flickering blue lights are irresistible, lead them astray towards their doom much like the mythical will-o-the wisp. The lights also play a part in helping much smaller male anglerfish find her in the vast, dark depths. The male bites onto her body, allowing their tissues and circulatory systems to fuse. He will hang on for the rest of his life, fed by nutrients received through the female’s blood, while he continuously fertilises her eggs. The couple become a single functioning organism.
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