Viperfish, sometimes spelled viper fish, is a type of deep-sea fish with many long fangs in its mouth. The viperfish has a long body with black or silver skin. It can reach 14 inches (35 centimeters) long, though most viperfish are smaller. There are several species (kinds).
The viperfish is found throughout the oceans. Most species live at depths from about 650 to 5,000 feet (200 to 1,500 meters). Little or no sunlight reaches these depths. Some species live at even greater depths, down to more than 15,000 feet (4,600 meters). Some viperfish species swim toward the surface at night to feed. They return to deeper waters during the day.
Two of the fangs on the lower jaw of the viperfish are especially long. These fangs do not fit inside the mouth when it is closed. Instead, they fit into grooves on the head. The lower jaws of the viperfish open unusually wide. As a result, the viperfish can eat large prey, up to about a quarter of its size. The ability to eat large prey provides a great advantage in the deep sea. In this region, there is little food, and meals may be infrequent.
The viperfish can produce its own light, an ability called bioluminescence. Its dorsal (back) fin has a light-producing organ at the end of a long spine. Scientists believe the viperfish uses this light organ to lure prey toward its mouth.
The viperfish eats a variety of small fish. It also eats shrimp and other crustaceans—a type of animal with a shell and jointed legs. The viperfish is sometimes eaten by swordfish, tuna, and other animals that dive into the deep sea.
