Fangtooth
Anoplogaster cornuta

One look at a fangtooth and it's easy to see how this fish got its name: like many deep sea fishes, a fangtooth has large, sharp teeth for capturing food that comes its way.

When a fish or shrimp swims nearby, a fangtooth simply opens its big mouth and sucks the animal inside. Animals caught in its trap have little chance of wriggling free.

Diet
fishes, squid, crustaceans

Size
to 6 inches (15 cm) long

Range
tropical and temperate seas worldwide at depths below 2,000 feet (610 meters)

Relatives
other fishes (no close relatives known yet)

Conservation Notes
The deep sea may seem remote, but what we send down will eventually cycle back up into our lives. Deep-sea animals are part of a thriving ecosystem. Our trash and chemicals may harm them if we are careless with our waste.

Cool Facts
Young fangtooths have a single row of teeth; adults have ferocious-looking fangs.