Deep Sea Black Dragonfish

Alternative Names

Atlantic Dragonfish, Black Dragonfish.


The Deep Sea Dragonfish, is a ferocious predator in spite of its small size. It is one of many species known to inhabit the deep oceans of the world. This fish grows to about six inches in length. It has a large head and mouth equipped with many sharp, fang-like teeth. The dragonfish has a long barbel attached to its chin. This barbel is tipped with a light-producing organ known as a photophore. The dragonfish uses this organ like a fishing lure, flashing it on and off and waving it back and forth. Once an unsuspecting fish gets too close, it is snapped up in the dragonfish's powerful jaws. The dragonfish also has photophores along the sides of its body. These light organs may be used to signal other dragonfish during mating. They may also serve to attract and disorient prey fishes from deep below. The Dragonfish lives in deep ocean waters at depths of up to 5000 feet (1,500 meters). They are found in most tropical regions around the world.

                                                     

The dragonfish can use its light-producing barbel like a fishing lure. By flashing it on and off and waving it back and forth, it is thought that the dragonfish can attract the attention of its potential meal. Once an unsuspecting fish gets too close, it is snapped up in the dragonfish's powerful jaws.

Classification

Species:

atlanticus

Genus:

Idiacanthus

Subfamily:

Idiacanthinae

Family:

Stomiidae

Order:

Stomiiformes

Class:

Actinopterygii

Subphylum:

Vertebrata

Phylum:

Chordata

Kingdom:

Animalia   

 

Distribution

The species occurs in subtropical and temperate marine waters of the southern hemisphere. The subfamily Idiacanthinae contains three species, two of which, Idiacanthus fasciola Peters, 1877 and Idiacanthus atlanticus occur in Australian waters.