Facts: The Pinecone Fish

Pineconefish are peculiar looking marine fish with bodies covered in large, plate-like scales. They inhabit the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific. They shelter in reef caves during the day and feed in the open at night. They are typically found between 66 and 660 ft deep. Their dorsal fin, located on the top of their body, is composed of strong spines. They also have a large pelvic fin spine, located on their underside, that can be locked erect. Pineconefish are typically yellow to orange in color. They have two light organs called photophores on their lower jaw. The light organs contain symbiotic luminous bacteria. When the pineconefish is hunting at night, the beams from its light organs shine forward, lighting the way. The light organs may also play a role in attracting the zooplankton that make up the pineconefish's diet. They typically grow to between 5 and 9 in long. Their eggs are pelagic. They are sometimes kept in aquariums. For more marine facts, click the SUBSCRIBE button!!