Loosejaws [Malacosteidae]

Description

Malacosteidae, or loosejaws, are a small family of deep-sea fish known for their unique jaw mechanism that allows the lower jaw to be detached, facilitating the ingestion of large prey. Many species also lack a swim bladder, which helps them maintain buoyancy at great depths. They possess photophores that emit red light, a color that is nearly invisible to other deep-sea creatures, giving them an advantage in hunting and avoiding predators. Loosejaws inhabit mid to deep pelagic waters worldwide.

Genera

Taxonomy