Fin's Fish Guide
The Soft leafvent angler (Haplophryne mollis) is a saltwater fish of the family Linophrynidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The ghostly seadevil is a deep-sea anglerfish (Linophrynidae) from the dark deep ocean. The female has a soft, nearly translucent whitish body and a lure on the head to attract prey in the dark. The male stays dwarfed and attaches permanently to the female, their tissues and blood circulation fusing; he thus becomes a parasitic 'partner' that only supplies sperm. It lives bathy- to mesopelagically. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Soft leafvent angler?
The Soft leafvent angler has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a plain pattern. The dwarf male attaches itself permanently to the female and fuses with her into a parasitic partner.
Where does the Soft leafvent angler live?
The Soft leafvent angler lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Open ocean; bathy- to mesopelagic.
How big does the Soft leafvent angler get?
The Soft leafvent angler grows to a maximum of about 16 cm. On average the species is around 8 cm.
Is the Soft leafvent angler dangerous to humans?
No, the Soft leafvent angler is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Soft leafvent angler edible?
The Soft leafvent angler is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Linophrynidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Soft leafvent angler is one of 12,519 species in the app.