The sharks that glow in the dark: Scientists release first experimental study of bioluminescent predators

Sign up for our free Health Check email to receive exclusive analysis on the week in health Get our free Health Check email Get our free Health Check email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Scientists have been left puzzled by a glow-in-the-dark shark after conducting the first experimental study of the deep-sea dweller. Recommended Mutant baby shark caught by fisherman In constructing their hypotheses, researchers cited previous studies which said that although D. licha has one of the slowest “cruising speeds” known among sharks, it is believed to have a very high short-range burst speed. Therefore, the scientists believe, either “luminescence might be used to illuminate the ocean floor while searching and hunting for prey, or to stealthily approach toward prey, using counter-illumination camouflage, before striking fast when close enough”. Researchers wrote: “The dorsal photophores, flank markings, and brighter pectoral fin and claspers are likely to be used for intraspecific communications, while the ventrally emitted light is likely to be used for counterillumination.” The study was published in the journal Frontiers in Marine Science.