Dragonfish

I've always been fascinated by the depths of the ocean that we can rarely reach. There are so many creatures and fish down there that capture the imagination. The deep sea is one of my favorite parts of the ocean to explore and study.

The only problem is that these fish aren't usually the most photogenic! I wanted to find something unique and try to capture the essence of the deep, black ocean thousands of feet below the surface.

Then the Dragonfish came calling.

I love the look of this fish. It's almost like a mix between an Anglerfish and an Oarfish, with an appearance that's both bizarre and menacing. It seemed like the perfect subject to bring into my collection.

 

Scientific Name: Stomias boa

• Habitat: Deep oceanic waters, generally around 200–1,500 meters (656–4,921 feet), in the mesopelagic and bathypelagic zones.

• Range: Broad distribution across the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific oceans, including the western Mediterranean, waters off Africa, the western Atlantic, and the southern oceans.

• Typical size: Up to about 12.6 inches (32 cm) long.

• Diet: Predatory, feeding primarily on smaller midwater fish and crustaceans.

• Known for: Its elongated, dark body, enormous mouth, long fang-like teeth, and distinctive chin barbel with a glowing tip that may help lure prey. Rows of light-producing organs called photophores run along its body, helping it blend into the dim deep-sea environment and potentially aiding communication and hunting.