Smooth Lantershark Jaw with Spines and DATA

Smooth Lanternshark jaw with two spines.

NO INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING

The Smooth Lanternshark (Etmopterus pusillus) is a small species of deep-sea shark in the family Etmopteridae, known for its bioluminescent capabilities. This species is found in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, inhabiting deep waters.

Key Characteristics of the Smooth Lanternshark:

1. Appearance: The Smooth Lanternshark is a small, slender shark with a relatively short and rounded snout. Its skin is smooth, lacking the prominent denticles seen in some other shark species.

2. Size: It is a small species, typically measuring only about 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 inches) in length.

3. Color and Bioluminescence: The shark is dark gray or brownish in color, with light-emitting photophores distributed across its body. These photophores give it the ability to produce light, which is believed to aid in camouflage, communication, and attracting prey.

4. Habitat: Smooth Lanternsharks inhabit deep waters, usually found at depths ranging from 300 to 2,000 meters (1,000 to 6,500 feet). They are commonly found near the ocean floor.

5. Diet: Their diet consists mainly of small bony fish, squid, and crustaceans. As a deep-sea predator, it plays a role in the ecology of its oceanic environment.

6. Behavior: They are known for their nocturnal habits and may migrate vertically in the water column, moving closer to the surface at night.

7. Reproduction: The Smooth Lanternshark is ovoviviparous, with females giving birth to live young after a gestation period. They produce relatively few offspring in each litter.

8. Conservation Status: Currently, the Smooth Lanternshark is not considered to be at significant risk, although its deep-sea habitat can make it vulnerable to environmental changes and certain fishing practices.

The Smooth Lanternshark's small size, bioluminescent abilities, and deep-sea habitat make it a unique and fascinating species within the diverse world of sharks. Its presence in the deep ocean highlights the vast and often unexplored biodiversity of these environments.

Etmopterus pusillus

7/8"x 3/4"

Male
TL 18.6 cm