Mysterious ‘Black Seadevil’ Spotted In Daylight Off Spanish Island | Watch
Photographer David Jara Boguna filmed a rare Humpback Anglerfish, or Black Seadevil, typically found in deep-sea darkness and never seen alive in daylight before
The depths of Earth’s seas and oceans hide many mysteries still unknown to us. Scientists continuously research these enigmatic waters, uncovering unique creatures that inhabit the dark, cold regions of the ocean, many of which we rarely see. However, sometimes these creatures surface, surprising us all.
A similar event occurred near the island of Tenerife, in Spain, in February when an unusual fish was spotted in daylight. The sight captivated onlookers and offered a fresh perspective on marine life.
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A group called Condrik Tenerife, was searching for sharks about 2km off the coast when they encountered an extraordinary fish. Photographer David Jara Boguna captured footage of this rare creature, identified as a Humpback Anglerfish, also known as the Black Seadevil.
A Rare Encounter
Typically, this fish lives in complete darkness at depths of 200 to 600 metres below the ocean’s surface and has never been observed alive in daylight before. Yet, this time, it was seen swimming near the surface in sunlight, making the sighting truly special.
The video quickly went viral on social media, capturing people’s imaginations. Some described the fish as a feminist symbol, while others compared it to Icarus, the figure from Greek mythology who perished after flying too close to the sun with wax-filled wings.
Despite its intimidating appearance, the fish was only 15 cm long. Female anglerfish possess a bioluminescent lure, known as an esca, which produces a glow to attract prey in the deep sea. This glow results from bacteria living within the fish’s body. Males, on the other hand, are much smaller, only 3 cm long, and lack this glowing lure. Instead, they find a female, attach themselves to her, and live parasitically for the rest of their lives.
Some speculate that rising water temperatures may have driven it upwards, while others suggest it was nearing the end of its life. Observers watched it for hours before it eventually died. Its body has since been preserved in a museum for further study.
The viral video stirred deep emotions among viewers. One person likened the fish to “an old grandmother who had dreamed of seeing the sun all her life and, knowing her time was ending, swam towards the light". Researchers noted that the footage helped spark public interest in marine life and conservation efforts.
Previously, the anglerfish was often perceived as a terrifying deep-sea creature, with its sharp teeth and eerie glow making it a popular villain in films like Finding Nemo and Star Wars. However, this sighting changed perspectives. While the anglerfish may not be conventionally beautiful, people responded to it with empathy, perhaps because it was drawn to the light, only to perish within it.
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