Angler Fish Habitat

Angler fish, also known as anglerfish, are one of the strange looking bony fish belonging to the order Lophiiformes and more than 15 families. The exact number of families is still controversial, some group 18 families under the same order while others identify 16 families. The name angler fish is given with reference to the fleshy outgrowth present in the head, which is used for luring its prey. This angler fish predation is quite similar to angling, hence the name.

One of the most interesting angler fish facts is the mode of feeding which is different in males and females. The fishing pole like structure on the head, which served as lure, is found only in females. Male angler fish do not exhibit any such features and they survive just to mate the female for reproduction. Besides their weird predation method, angler fish also inhabit at the most inhospitable regions. So, what kind of habitat do anglerfish live in? Scroll down to delve more about angler fish habitat and some other interesting facts about these strange looking fish.

Angler fish are most probably the ugliest looking creature identified till date. Gray or dark brown in color, they are equipped with characteristic features, which help them adapt to the habitat and surrounding conditions. Majority of the angler fish species have a wide mouth that runs along the entire anterior portion. The jaws are equipped with sharp teeth that point inwards. The ability to expand mouth and stomach enable angler fish to swallow prey twice as large as their body size.

Different species of this fish harbor at varied depths. Some are pelagic, dwelling in the open seas; while other angler fish species are benthic, living at the bottom of the sea. The free swimming anglerfish have a laterally compressed body, while the bottom dwellers are dorsoventrally compressed to suit to their habitats. Those living at the sea bottom also bear pectoral fins that resemble hand appendages, which are used for walking at the sea or ocean floor.

As of now, more than 200 species of anglerfish are identified, most of which are found living in the Antarctic and Atlantic oceans at a depth of 2 - 500 meter. The deep sea angler fish habitat is believed to be about 3,000 feet (914 meters) below the water surface. Scientifically named as Melanocetus johnsoni, this species is adapted to the dark sea bottom, where sunlight cannot reach. Also, the water is about near freezing temperature. Consequently, at such depths, the food is scarce and deep sea anglerfish do not feed everyday.

Speaking family wise, angler fish species of family Antennariidae have habitats in shallow waters; whereas those classified under family Ogcocephalidae (e.g. batfish) are found in shallow and deep waters. It is claimed that species belonging to Chaunacidae family (e.g. sea toads) and Lophiidae family (e.g. goosefishes) dwell in deep waters. Since most anglerfish live in deep oceans, it is very difficult for marine biologists to study their habitat, feeding, reproduction and other aspects.

Thus, seeing the angler fish habitat, there is no wonder about the adaptive features of this deep ocean fish. To remain camouflage in their habitat and while searching for food, angler fish also possess seaweed like fringes all over head and body. So, you can imagine how an anglerfish looks like? This incredible fish is a classic example that shows us how creatures adapt to the deepest oceans with fascinating characteristics, irrespective of the scarcity of light and food in the habitat.