Scientists Encounter Terrifying ‘Black Seadevil’ Gliding Through Shallow Waters

"Scientists Spot Chilling 'Black Seadevil' in Shallow Waters"

A rare deep-sea anglerfish was spotted near the surface off the Canary Islands, surprising researchers who typically find them much deeper.

Alex Chen11 February 2025Last Update : 15 hours ago

Nightmarish 'black seadevil' spotted by scientists swimming in shallow waters

nypost.com

A deep-sea anglerfish, known as the “black seadevil,” was spotted swimming near the surface of the water off the Canary Islands earlier this month. This rare sighting was made by Condrik Tenerife, a Spanish NGO focused on marine research, and marine photographer David Jara Borguña.

6 Key Takeaways

Rare deep-sea anglerfish sighting reported
Spotted near Canary Islands' surface
Known as "black seadevil," Melanocetus johnsonii
Typically found 650 to 6,500 feet deep
Female anglerfish have bioluminescent lure
Sighting considered extremely unusual by researchers

Fast Answer: A rare sighting of a deep-sea anglerfish, or “black seadevil,” occurred near the Canary Islands this month. The fish, typically found at depths of 650 to 6,500 feet, was documented by Condrik Tenerife and marine photographer David Jara Borguña. Researchers are puzzled by its shallow location.

The deep-sea anglerfish, scientifically known as Melanocetus johnsonii, is usually found in the Bathypelagic Zone, where it resides between 650 and 6,500 feet below the ocean surface. This zone is characterized by constant temperatures around 39 degrees Fahrenheit and extreme water pressure exceeding 5,850 pounds per square inch. The fish’s bioluminescent lure, a feature of only female anglerfish, helps it attract prey in the dark depths of the ocean.

According to Condrik Tenerife, sightings of this species are exceedingly rare, with most records consisting of larvae, deceased specimens, or those observed during deep-sea expeditions. The organization expressed surprise at the fish’s presence in shallower waters, noting that it is unclear why it ventured so far from its typical habitat. The research team stated, “This find will be remembered forever.”

Researchers continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this unusual sighting. They aim to understand more about the behavior of deep-sea species and the factors that may lead to such occurrences. The anglerfish’s unique adaptations and ecological role in the ocean’s depths make it a subject of interest for marine biologists.

Notice: Canadian readers interested in marine biology may find it worthwhile to follow ongoing research on deep-sea species, as new sightings can provide insights into ocean health and biodiversity.

This sighting of the black seadevil highlights the mysteries of the ocean and the challenges researchers face in studying deep-sea life. The unusual location of this anglerfish raises questions that may lead to new discoveries in marine science.