Meet the Black Sea Devil: Small, Spooky, and Seriously Ugly!
In early February 2025, a remarkable event captivated TikTok users worldwide: a deep-sea anglerfish, specifically a black sea devil (Melanocetus johnsonii), was filmed swimming near the ocean’s surface off the coast of Tenerife. This unprecedented footage, shared by marine photographer David Jara Boguñá, quickly went viral, amassing millions of views and sparking widespread emotional reactions. Typically inhabiting depths between 200 and 2,000 meters, the appearance of this elusive creature in shallow waters left both scientists and the public in awe. Tragically, the anglerfish survived only a few hours after its ascent and has since been preserved at the Museum of Nature and Archaeology in Santa Cruz de Tenerife for further study.
So why was this elusive predator seen now?
The reasons behind this anglerfish’s journey to the surface remain speculative. Some experts suggest it may have been fleeing a predator, while others propose illness or disorientation as possible causes. Given the extreme pressure and temperature differences between the deep sea and surface waters, such an ascent is perilous for deep-sea species, often leading to fatal consequences.
Anyone else shocked by its miniature stature?
Beyond the rarity of the sighting, viewers were astonished by the anglerfish’s size. Contrary to the menacing image often portrayed in media, this specimen was small enough to fit in the palm of a hand. This discrepancy highlights a common misconception about the true dimensions of deep-sea creatures. While some anglerfish species can reach lengths up to 1.2 meters (3.9 feet), many, like the black seadevil, are much smaller, averaging around 9 centimeters (3.5 inches) in length.
This phenomenon isn’t unique to anglerfish. Public perception often misjudges the sizes of various creatures. Take bedbugs, for instance. Many assume these pests are microscopic, yet adult bedbugs measure approximately 5 to 7 millimeters (about a quarter of an inch), making them easily visible to the naked eye.
These misconceptions underscore the importance of accurate information and firsthand observation in understanding the natural world. As we continue to explore and document Earth’s biodiversity, we are frequently reminded that reality often defies our expectations. What other creatures have surprised you with their true size? Let us know!
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