Common name : Sloan’s viper fish, Sloan’s fang fish
Scientific name : Chauliodus sloani
Family : Stomiidae
Native to : Tropical and temperate waters worldwide
Interesting fact : The first vertebra rightbehind the head acts as a shock absorber
when it charges at its victim at a high speed.
Conservation status : Not Evaluated
The viper fish has large, sharp, fang-like teeth that almost reach its eyes. It is dark silvery blue in colour with a large mouth. It has a long dorsal spine tipped with a photophore that is used to attract prey. Spawning occurs throughout the year, with females releasing the eggs in open water to be fertilized. Lifespan is 30-40 years.
