Midwater eelpout
Melanostigma pammelas
- Not on exhibit
- Animal type
- Fishes
- Ecosystem
- Deep sea
- Relatives
- Other eelpouts
- Diet
- Krill, copepods, salps, amphipods
- Range
- British Columbia to central Mexico, at depths between 314 and 7,200 feet (96–2,195 meters)
- Size
- Up to 7 inches (17 cm)
Meet the midwater eelpout
An eelpout's size and body provide clues to understanding life in the midwater. Fishes like eelpouts have weak skeletons, without much muscle, so they don't grow very large or swim very fast.
Did you know?
An eelpout isn't really an eel; it just looks like one, with its long, thin body. It's frequently seen curled up into an "O"—scientists think eelpouts might be disguising themselves as a jelly to avoid being eaten. Midwater eelpouts were first discovered in Monterey Bay.
Conservation
Anything that finds its way into the ocean, whether it's tossed away as trash, washes off a beach or falls off a boat, may eventually make its way to the deep sea. It's important to realize that the deep sea is not so far away that it's beyond the reach of human activities. Living creatures in the deep are affected by what we do at the surface.
Cool facts
- A black lining in this eelpout's stomach hides the light of bioluminescent prey.
Up next in deep sea
Animal
Midwater jelly
The midwater jelly is a strong swimmer compared to many other gelatinous species.
Keep exploring
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Giant siphonophore
When startled, the giant siphonophore glows with bright blue light.