| The Abyss - Walking Batfish |
| Written by Jonathan C. Wojcik - Photo credits unknown or from public news articles unless otherwise noted. If you know their sources and need them credited or removed, please e-mail me. |
Resembling a cross between a toad and a roast chicken, Ogcocephalus are actually a
group of anglers distinct from the luminous Ceratioids. Their upper backs twist outward into
a large snout, with the tiny illicium dangling in a nostril-like pit. These lures produce no light,
but secrete a chemical into the water that may lure prey by scent. Poor swimmers, Their fins
are modified to walk along the sea floor. These creatures can actually be found even in
shallower waters, where they often take on a more colorful appearance. When disturbed,
some species can inflate like a blowfish.
group of anglers distinct from the luminous Ceratioids. Their upper backs twist outward into
a large snout, with the tiny illicium dangling in a nostril-like pit. These lures produce no light,
but secrete a chemical into the water that may lure prey by scent. Poor swimmers, Their fins
are modified to walk along the sea floor. These creatures can actually be found even in
shallower waters, where they often take on a more colorful appearance. When disturbed,
some species can inflate like a blowfish.
