Scientists have spotted a rare humpback anglerfish, Melanocetus johnsonii, off the coast of Tenerife, marking what could be the first-ever sighting of this species in broad daylight. The deep-sea dweller was seen near the surface, defying its usual habitat at depths of 200-2,000 metres.
Researcher Laia Valor spotted the unusual creature while on a shark research campaign with the NGO Condrik. She described it as “something black in the water that didn’t look like plastic or debris.” The team spent several hours observing the fish before it passed away.
The reason behind the fish’s presence near the surface remains unknown, but scientists speculate it may be related to El Niño weather events, which reduce cold water upwelling off North America. This could potentially be the first-ever filmed sighting in daylight conditions.
The researchers brought the body to the Museum of Nature and Archaeology (MUNA) for further study, advancing knowledge about this elusive species. Despite its fearsome appearance, the humpback anglerfish relies on a bioluminescent lure to attract prey in the dark depths it inhabits.
Source: https://oceanographicmagazine.com/news/rare-deep-sea-anglerfish-seen-for-first-time-in-broad-daylight