On the surface, there seems to be a very plausible reason for the inclusion of the deep sea angler fish into this blog, namely it's curious, grotesque appearance which seldom fails to fascinate. However, despite the obvious, there are a further two reasons which are relatively unknown to most, but are equally impressive. The first of these is in relation to the strange protrusion emanating from it's forehead. This thin, curved spine ending in a bulbous growth is used as a specialised lure to draw the creatures prey towards it, a useful tool considering the fishes predisposition to slow movement through the water. It is also highly maneuverable, however, with the fish often remaining stationary in the water and waving it in numerous directions, ensuring it's food source comes to it, rather than resorting to traditional hunting methods.
Without doubt, the most fascinating aspect of this species is the relationship between the male and female, with the former being much smaller in scale and often coloured black, in contrast to the red of the opposite gender. With the male reaching maturity, it's digestive system is rendered useless and must seek out a partner for both self preservation and reproduction. Once located, the male bites into the body of his partner and releases an enzyme which essentially melts and fuses his mouth, to her flesh, resulting in a lifelong union between the two, with the male receiving nutrition from her food intake and becoming a kind of curious parasite, of sorts!
http://www.seasky.org
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