California Headlightfish

Diaphus theta

California Headlightfish

Rows of light producing organs run along its body, glowing in the dark water of the open ocean. This small lanternfish rises toward the surface to feed at night on krill and copepods, then sinks back into the deep, ranging across a huge span of depth.

Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Myctophiformes › Myctophidae › Diaphus

Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 272694.

FAQ

How deep does the California Headlightfish live?
The California Headlightfish (Diaphus theta) is typically found at 10–3400 m.
Is the California Headlightfish dangerous to divers?
The California Headlightfish is harmless to divers.
How big does the California Headlightfish get?
The California Headlightfish grows to about 11.4 cm.