Identity card
LATIN NAME: Anomalops katoptron
FAMILY: Anomalopidae
PHYLUM: Chordata
CLASS: Actinopterygii
This luminous Pacific fish is a fascinating animal. The flashlight fish can be recognised by its torch-like organ.
It lives in coral reefs to depths of 400 metres. It shelters in undersea caverns, caves and crevices during the day. Juveniles can be seen on very dark nights near caves and slopes.
The splitfin flashlight fish is a nocturnal animal: it comes out at night to feed. Its diet mainly comprises zooplankton and small crustaceans.
It measures 28 cm on average but can grow up to 35 cm long.