Splitfin Flashlight Fish

Anomalops katoptron

Habitat & Distribution :  Western & Central Pacific Ocean

Diet : Zooplankton, small crustaceans

Size : 12 cm

Lifespan : 3 - 5 years

Description

They have a black or charcoal-gray, deeply laterally compressed, and relatively stout body, often with a blue tint along the dorsal and caudal fins. The most prominent feature is the large, bean-shaped, torch-like suborbital light organ located under each eye, which contains bioluminescent bacteria

Behavior

They hide in caves during the day and feed on zooplankton at night, often schooling together while using their flashing to communicate, attract prey, and confuse predators.

Reproduction

They are believed to be broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column for external fertilization. 

Communication & Perception

They utilize their subocular, bacteria-powered bioluminescent organs to communicate through complex, high-frequency flashing patterns. These signals coordinate schooling behavior, allowing fish to stay together in darkness. They also use these lights for social signaling, attracting mates, and "blink-and-run" defensive maneuvers to confuse predators.

Predator(s)

Snappers, groupers