How to Recognize a Viperfish

Although it is seldom seen because of the depths it inhabits in the ocean, the viperfish is well known because of its distinct characteristics. It is one of the more frightening-looking fish living in the deep ocean that lives up to its vicious name.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Look at the ferocious mouth of the viperfish. It sports incredibly long, sharp fangs on its lower jaw that are spaced relatively far apart and are curved backwards towards the eyes. There are four long fangs on either side of its upper jaw and is believed to feed on small fish and crustaceans.

2. Note the body of the fish. It's approximately 1 foot in length and extremely narrow in comparison to its length. The pale dorsal fin reaches from the middle of its back to the tale-end with rays that face backwards. The color of the viperfish ranges from green to a dark bluish-black with large, fragile scales that are hexagonal in shape.

3. Notice the many light-producing (photophores) organs in the viperfish. In addition to the iridescent scales, it boasts light organs beneath its eyes, in the dorsal fin (to attract prey) and in its mouth. The hinged head allows it to swivel upwards in order to swallow its prey.

4. Expect to find the viperfish anywhere from 500 to 2500 meters below the surface during the day, where it floats at a 45-degree angle. At night it migrates up towards the shallower waters where food is more abundant, about 600 meters below the surface.

5. Observe the mating habits of the viperfish. Scientists believe they spawn externally; meaning the female releases her eggs into the water and the male releases sperm into the water where they fertilize. They live in temperate and tropical waters throughout the world.