description Lanternshark (Etmopterus pusillus) Overview
Etmopterus pusillus, commonly known as the smooth lanternshark, is a small species of deep-sea shark belonging to the family Etmopteridae. First described in 1839, this mesopelagic fish inhabits the deep waters of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. It is distinguished by the presence of bioluminescent photophores located on its ventral surface, which produce a faint blue-green light. This counterillumination helps the shark camouflage its silhouette from predators looking upward in the dark ocean depths.
help Lanternshark (Etmopterus pusillus) FAQ
How does the Smooth Lanternshark produce light?
The Smooth Lanternshark possesses specialized organs called photophores on its ventral surface, which produce a natural bioluminescence. This glow helps camouflage the shark against the faint sunlight coming from above in the deep sea.
How big do Smooth Lanternsharks get?
As a member of the squalid shark family, the Etmopterus pusillus is relatively small compared to predatory sharks. They generally reach a maximum length of around 50 centimeters (about 20 inches).
When was the Smooth Lanternshark first described?
The species was first officially described by the naturalist Georges Cuvier in the early 19th century. It was originally classified based on specimens brought up from deep-water fishing nets.
What do Smooth Lanternsharks eat in the deep sea?
Their diet primarily consists of small deep-sea fish, squids, and various crustaceans. They use their sharp teeth to capture fast-moving prey in the dark environments of the ocean depths.
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