Bizarre fish: Macropinna microstoma

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In summary, the Macropinna microstoma, or barreleye fish, is a bizarre creature with a transparent head and barrel-shaped eyes that give it a 360-degree field of vision. It is found in the deep sea, primarily in the Pacific Ocean, and feeds on small crustaceans and other sea creatures. Its unique eyes have a green lens that filters out blue light, allowing it to spot bioluminescent prey in the dark ocean depths. Due to its transparent head, it is also known as the "spookfish".
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Monique
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I just saw this today, last week researchers from the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute found a bizarre-looking deep-sea fish off the coast of California. It is a fish that was first described in 1939, it has a transparent head in which you can clearly see its organs. It has now been captured on camera:

http://www.mbari.org/news/news_releases/2009/barreleye/barreleye.html

http://www.mbari.org/news/news_releases/2009/barreleye/barreleye1-350.jpg
 
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  • #2
Thats a bit scary but its got a cute little face.
 
  • #3
aww that's so cool.
 

1. What makes Macropinna microstoma so bizarre?

Macropinna microstoma, also known as the barreleye fish, is known for its unique transparent head and barrel-shaped eyes. This allows the fish to have a 360-degree field of vision, making it easier to spot prey and predators in the deep sea.

2. Where is Macropinna microstoma found?

This bizarre fish is found in the deep sea, typically at depths of 600 to 800 meters. It is known to inhabit the Pacific Ocean, particularly off the coast of California and Japan.

3. What does Macropinna microstoma eat?

The barreleye fish primarily feeds on small crustaceans, jellyfish, and other small fish. Its unique eyes allow it to see its prey in the darkness of the deep sea.

4. How do the eyes of Macropinna microstoma work?

The fish's barrel-shaped eyes are positioned on the top of its transparent head, giving it a 360-degree view. The eyes also have a green lens that filters out blue light, making it easier for the fish to see bioluminescent prey in the dark depths of the ocean.

5. Why is Macropinna microstoma also known as the "spookfish"?

The barreleye fish has another unique feature - its transparent head. This allows it to remain hidden from predators while still being able to see its surroundings. This ghost-like quality has earned it the nickname "spookfish".

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