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Published on: October 26, 2019
First detection of biofluorescence in a deep-sea anglerfish
William B Ludt1,2, Todd R Clardy1
1Department of Ichthyology, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, Los Angeles, California, USA.
Abstract:
Biofluorescence has been observed in a variety of fishes, but is rare in deep-sea environments where light from the surface cannot reach. Here, we document biofluorescence in an oceanic anglerfish, the Pacific footballfish. Green biofluorescence was observed in small spots on the distal surface of the esca. While the wavelength of bioluminescent light is unknown for this species, it is possible that light produced by this species also results in biofluorescent emission that may create a more complex lure for attracting prey or mates.
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