Pacific Viperfish

The Pacific viperfish (Chauliodus macouni) primarily inhabits the mesopelagic and bathypelagic zones of the Pacific Ocean. They are typically found at depths ranging from 200 meters during the day down to 3,000 meters. They migrate to shallower waters at night to feed on small crustaceans and fish.

As an ambush predator, the Pacific viperfish uses bioluminescent organs along its belly to camouflage itself in the dark water, a process known as counterillumination. It also possesses a dorsal fin ray tipped with a glowing photophore to lure unsuspecting prey. Once the prey is close, the viperfish uses its massive, fang-like teeth to secure it.

Pacific viperfish feed primarily on small crustaceans and other deep-sea fishes. Their hinged skull allows them to swallow prey that is surprisingly large relative to their own body size. Because food is scarce in the deep ocean, they are highly efficient predators that eat whenever the opportunity arises.

Despite their terrifying appearance and large teeth, Pacific viperfish are very small—usually less than 12 inches (30 cm) long—and pose no threat to humans. They live at extreme depths where human interaction is virtually nonexistent. They are occasionally brought to the surface in deep-sea trawls but do not survive the pressure change.