Viperfish

A deep-sea predator with fangs so long they do not fit in its mouth/Deep Sea & Ocean Life

The Pacific viperfish (Chauliodus macouni) is a deep-sea fish found at depths of 200 to 5,000 meters, recognized by its enormous fang-like teeth that curve back toward the eyes. These needle-sharp teeth are so long that the fish cannot close its mouth fully. The viperfish uses bioluminescent photophores along its belly and a light organ on a modified dorsal fin ray to lure prey in the pitch-black deep ocean. It can swim at high speed in short bursts, impaling prey on its fangs. Despite its fearsome appearance, viperfish are only about 30 cm long.