Aquarium of the Pacific | Online Learning Center | Giant Flashlightfish

Aquatic

| Bony Fishes |

Giant Flashlightfish

Anomalops katoptron

 |   Conservation Status:  Safe for Now

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Anoather common name for the giant flashlight fish is splitfin flashlight fish. These fish use their blinking lights to communicate with other giant flashlightfish, assist in schooling and mating, and to attract prey.

Facts and FeaturesFull Description >>

Geographic Distribution

Western Indo-Pacific Ocean to southern Japan and south to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef

Amazing Facts

The bright light of schooling flashlight fish can be seen at night up to 30.5 m (100 ft away). This light is said to be the brightest glow produced by any known living organism.

At the Aquarium

Not on exhibit. Information about this flashlight fish is included in the Online Ocean Learning Center for use as a reference.