In a remarkable and unprecedented event, marine biologists have documented the first-ever sighting of a live adult black sea devil (Melanocetus johnsonii) near the surface waters off Tenerife, Spain. This elusive deep-sea anglerfish, typically residing at depths between 200 and 2,000 meters, was observed swimming vertically in broad daylight—a phenomenon that has left scientists both astonished and intrigued.
On January 26, 2025, a research team from the wildlife NGO Condrik-Tenerife, led by marine biologist Laia Valor, was conducting a shark study near San Juan beach when they encountered the rare specimen. Marine photographer David Jara Boguñá captured the encounter on video, showcasing the anglerfish’s distinctive features: a massive head, needle-like teeth, and a bioluminescent lure dangling from its forehead. This lure, glowing with symbiotic bacteria, is used to attract prey in the pitch-black depths of the ocean.
This event marks the first recorded instance of an adult black sea devil being observed alive near the ocean’s surface in daylight. Previously, knowledge of this species was limited to dead specimens, deep-sea submersible footage, or observations of larval stages. The sighting provides a unique opportunity to study the behavior and physiology of a creature adapted to the extreme conditions of the deep sea.
Possible Explanations for the Ascent
The reasons behind the anglerfish’s unexpected rise to shallow waters remain speculative. Scientists have proposed several hypotheses:
- Illness or Environmental Stress: The fish may have been disoriented due to health issues or changes in its deep-sea environment.
- Oceanic Currents: Strong upwelling currents could have transported the fish from its natural habitat to the surface.
- Predator Evasion: The anglerfish might have ascended rapidly to escape a deep-sea predator.
- Climate Change: Alterations in ocean temperatures and currents could be disrupting deep-sea ecosystems, forcing species into unfamiliar territories.
Further research is needed to determine the exact cause of this unusual behavior.
Unfortunately, the black sea devil did not survive long after its appearance near the surface. The specimen was retrieved and is now housed at the Museum of Nature and Archaeology (MUNA) in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Researchers plan to conduct detailed analyses, including tissue examination and stomach content analysis, to gain insights into its biology and the circumstances leading to its ascent.
Conclusion
This rare encounter with the black sea devil offers a glimpse into the mysteries of the deep sea and underscores the importance of marine research. As scientists continue to explore the ocean’s depths, such discoveries enhance our understanding of the complex and often hidden ecosystems that exist beneath the waves.
