Unprecedented Daylight Encounter: Rare Deep-Sea Anglerfish Spotted for the First Time in Its Natural Habitat

"Rare Deep-Sea Anglerfish Seen in Daylight for the First Time"

Researchers off Tenerife spotted a rare abyssal humpback anglerfish near the surface, possibly the first daylight sighting of its kind.

Alex Chen11 February 2025Last Update : 1 day ago

Rare deep-sea anglerfish seen for first time in broad daylight

oceanographicmagazine.com

On February 10, 2025, researchers with the NGO Condrik made a rare discovery off the coast of Tenerife when they spotted an adult abyssal humpback anglerfish near the surface. This sighting is potentially the first instance of the species being observed in broad daylight, as previous encounters have been limited to underwater images or dead specimens.

6 Key Takeaways

Rare sighting of abyssal humpback anglerfish
First daylight observation of the species
Speculation on El Niño influence
Fish found in poor condition
Body sent for further study at MUNA
Bioluminescent lure used for prey attraction

The unusual find occurred just 2 kilometers from shore, where underwater photographer David Jara Boguñá first noticed the fish. Marine biologist Laia Valor, part of the shark expedition, reported that the fish was in poor condition and survived only a few hours after being discovered.

Fast Answer: Researchers off Tenerife spotted an adult abyssal humpback anglerfish in daylight on February 10, 2025. This rare sighting, potentially the first of its kind, occurred just 2 kilometers from shore. The fish was in poor condition and died shortly after discovery.

The abyssal humpback anglerfish typically resides at depths between 200 and 2,000 meters, making this sighting particularly unusual. Marine biologists have limited previous observations to submarine images, dead individuals, or larvae. The fish’s appearance near the surface has raised questions among researchers about its behavior and environmental factors that may have influenced this occurrence.

Some scientists speculate that El Niño weather events could cause certain individuals of the species to rise closer to the surface due to reduced cold water upwelling off the coast of North America. Laia Valor noted the fish’s unusual presence, stating, “There could be thousands of reasons why it was there.” The researchers spent several hours with the fish before it passed away.

After its death, the body of the anglerfish was taken to the Museum of Nature and Archaeology (MUNA) in Santa Cruz de Tenerife for further study. This examination aims to enhance understanding of this elusive species. The humpback anglerfish is known for its large mouth filled with sharp teeth and a bioluminescent lure used to attract prey in its dark habitat.

Notice: Canadian marine biologists and researchers may find parallels in studying rare marine species. Observations like the one off Tenerife can provide insights into environmental changes affecting marine life globally.

This sighting of the abyssal humpback anglerfish represents a significant event in marine biology, offering a rare glimpse into the behavior of a species that typically remains hidden in the depths of the ocean. The ongoing research may yield valuable information about the species and its ecological role.