Angler Fish Washed Ashore
It’s extremely rare to see an anglerfish outside of the deep ocean but this one was found at Crystal Cove State Park in California. Anglerfish are typically found at ocean depths around 3,000 feet. The protrusion from the head is a modified dorsal fin known as the esca. It’s bioluminescence attracts prey that the anglerfish then impales with their sharp teeth. The esca is even known to attract predators that then turn the hunter into the hunted.
Up next: Jarring nature photos continues…