Scientists from MBARI have filmed a deep sea anglerfish of the genus Melanocetus alive and swimming.
Despite its fearsome appearance, the Black devil anglerfish is only 9cm/3.6in long. It was filmed at a depth of 600m in the dark waters of the Monterey Canyon during a research expedition (scroll down for video).
MBARI Senior Scientist Bruce Robison, who led the dive using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), said: "Anglerfish, like this Melanocetus, are among the most rarely seen of all deep-sea fishes. The shining spot at the tip of the 'fishing pole' projecting from the fish's head is a glowing lure. The anglerfish uses its light to attract prey in its deep, dark habitat."
MBARI believes that this is the first video footage ever made of this species alive and at depth.