The dreamer anglerfish, known for its ultra-black skin that acts like an “invisibility cloak,” is a highly elusive deep-sea creature that primarily inhabits depths too deep for humans to reach. MBARI researchers have only encountered this species nine times in 36 years of deep-sea exploration. The encounter provided valuable insights into the mysterious midwater region of the ocean, where the anglerfish resides.
During a recent deep-sea exploration in Monterey Bay off the coast of California, a team of researchers from the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) had an extraordinary and rare encounter with a dreamer anglerfish. The deep-sea creature, known for its ultra-black skin that resembles an “invisibility cloak,” made a striking appearance in the depths of the Pacific Ocean.
At first glance, the anglerfish appeared as a shadowy silhouette lurking in the ocean’s depths, blending seamlessly with its surroundings. The dreamer anglerfish’s natural camouflage is so effective that it often goes unnoticed by observers.
Sightings of this elusive creature are infrequent, primarily because it resides in depths of the ocean that are beyond the reach of humans. Researchers at MBARI have encountered the dreamer anglerfish on just nine occasions over the course of 36 years of deep-sea exploration, with their last sighting dating back to 2016.
The researchers’ primary mission during this expedition was to collect tiny spiked organisms known as phaeodarians, which inhabit the midwater region of the ocean. These organisms rely on marine snow, an organic material that sinks to deep ocean depths, as a vital food source. The goal was to study these organisms to gain a better understanding of the connection between Earth’s climate and the ocean.
The unexpected encounter with the dreamer anglerfish added an exciting dimension to their exploration. Using a remotely operated submersible, the researchers observed the anglerfish at a depth of 781 meters (2,562 feet) in the Monterey Canyon. The anglerfish, with its luminescent lure extended from its head, appeared to be lying in ambush, awaiting prey. When a curious crustacean approached, the anglerfish’s large jaws snapped shut rapidly to capture its meal.
As the robotic vehicle moved closer to the anglerfish, the creature retracted its lure, showcasing its remarkable ability to blend into its environment.
“The ‘invisibility cloak’ of this anglerfish is a good analogy for the many puzzles we have yet to fully understand about the ocean’s midwater,” commented Crissy Huffard, the chief scientist for the research cruise that encountered the dreamer anglerfish.
This mysterious and otherworldly anglerfish, with its sharp teeth, luminous lure, and ultra-black skin, has long fascinated researchers. Its adaptations are vital for its survival in the harsh and unforgiving deep-sea environment, characterized by frigid temperatures, immense water pressure, and the absence of sunlight. In this dark and challenging environment, finding both food and mates can be extremely challenging.