Lanternfish (or myctophids, from the Greek μυκτήρ myktḗr, "nose" and ophis, "serpent") are small mesopelagic fish of the large family Myctophidae. One of two families in the order Myctophiformes, …

Lantern fish, any of the numerous species of small, abundant, deep-sea fish of the family Myctophidae. Some lantern fish live in the depths to 300 metres (about 1,000 feet) by day, but at night they may …

Learn about the lanternfish—which represents more than 60% of all the fish in the deep ocean—and discover how it caused a mystery that perplexed scientists for decades.

The lanternfish or myctophids are very abundant midwater fish found throughout the world’s oceans, consisting of approximately 300 species, many of which undergo diurnal vertical migrations.

Lantern fish (family Myctophidae) are one of the most important groups of midwater fishes, with some 230 – 250 species known. Most are small fish, measuring from 0.8-10.4 in (2-15 cm) in length. They …

The lanternfish, also known as Symbolophorus barnardi, is a deep-water fish that gets its name from its ability to produce light. The light is produced by tiny organs known as photophores.

Mar 20, 2025 · Lantern fish truly are remarkable creatures. Their bioluminescence, deep-sea adaptations, and role in the ocean’s food web make them fascinating subjects for study.

This lanternfish (Diaphus sp.), found in the Red Sea, has light-producing photophores along its ventral surface (belly), and a nasal light organ that acts like a headlight. Hear scientists tell stories about …

Jul 16, 2025 · The term "lanternfish" doesn't refer to a single species, but rather to a diverse group of deep-sea fish within the taxonomic order Lophiiformes (anglerfish). They are ambush predators that …

Oct 4, 2019 · Everything from squid to seabirds and fish to whales feed on lanternfish. They spawn seasonally and generally travel in large schools, all depending on where in the ocean they live.