Gigantactis meadi facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Gigantactis meadi |
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The Gigantactis meadi is a fascinating type of deep-sea fish. It belongs to a group called whipnose anglers. These fish are known for their very long "fishing rods" that they use to attract prey in the dark ocean.
Scientists Erik Bertelsen, Theodore Wells Pietsch III, and Robert J. Lavenberg first described this specific fish in 1981.
What's in a Name?
The name Gigantactis tells us something special about this fish. It comes from two Greek words:
- Gigas means "gigantic."
- Aktis means "ray."
This name describes the fish's incredibly long dorsal-fin spine. This spine is like a giant ray or rod that helps the fish hunt for food.
Appearance and Features
The Gigantactis meadi has a unique look. Like other whipnose anglers, it has a very long, thin "fishing rod" that sticks out from its head. This rod has a special glowing lure at the end. It uses this lure to attract smaller fish and other creatures in the pitch-black deep sea.
This fish also has:
- Six soft rays on its dorsal fin (the fin on its back).
- Six soft rays on its anal fin (the fin on its belly, near the tail).
Where It Lives
The Gigantactis meadi lives in the very deep parts of the ocean. It prefers the bottom waters, far below where sunlight can reach. You can find this fish in many different parts of the world, including:
- Off the coasts of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay in South America.
- Near the Falkland Islands, Saint Helena, Tristan da Cunha, South Georgia, and the South Sandwich Islands.
- In the seas around Australia, especially south of Tasmania.
- Near New Zealand, Norfolk Island, and the French Southern Territories.
- Around Heard Island and McDonald Islands.
- Off the coast of South Africa.
This amazing fish lives at incredible depths, usually between 1,213 meters (about 4,000 feet) and 2,000 meters (about 6,500 feet) below the surface!
See also
- In Spanish: Gigantactis meadi para niños
