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, …

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.

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 …

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 given off by tiny organs known as photophores.

What is a Lanternfish? Lanternfish, scientifically known as members of the family Myctophidae, are small, deep-sea fish that thrive in oceans the world over.

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 26, 2025 · Lanternfish are estimated to be the most numerous fish species in the ocean, with populations reaching into the trillions. They inhabit deep waters worldwide, particularly in the …

Lanternfishes, scientifically known as Myctophidae, are an intriguing group of small, bioluminescent fishes that light up the depths of the ocean. They are found in deep waters around the globe and are …

Oct 4, 2019 · Lanternfish have slender bodies about four inches long, a distinctly rounded head, and eyes that are large in proportion to the size of their bodies. Depending on where a particular …