Fish Facts

Angler Fish

Here is a fish story for the ages! The Angler Fish, while not too terribly attractive, may be an even better fisherman than you! As you can see in the picture there is a rod that extends out beyond the front of the fish. On the end of this rod is a "lure" that resembles a worm. In an attempt to attract prey, the Angler Fish will cause the worm-like object to wiggle. Since visibility is a problem in extremely deep water, light producing bacteria will help illuminate the worm. The unsuspecting prey approach the lure in hopes of a nice meal, instead they become a meal themselves! Now here's where the story gets really strange, read on... On the underside of the Angler Fish towards the rear is a small object attached to the flesh. This "attachment" is actually the male Angler Fish. He attaches himself to the female by biting into the skin. This will be the last bite he ever takes! Over time their bloodstream will become one. The male will lose all his organs and eventually even his eyes. From this point on he will spend the remainder of his life, living as a parasite, dependant on the female for all his nourishment. For the female he will be a source of sperm, inseparable, mated for life.