What do black swallower fish eat?

Black swallower fish (Chiasmodon niger) are known for their ability to swallow prey much larger than themselves. They are opportunistic predators and their diet consists of:

* Fish: This is their primary food source, and they have been known to eat fish larger than their own body length.

* Squid: They also consume squid, which are often found in the same deep-sea habitats.

* Other small invertebrates: They may also eat crustaceans, worms, and other small invertebrates.

Here's what makes their diet so fascinating:

* Expandable stomachs: Black swallowers have incredibly expandable stomachs that allow them to accommodate prey much larger than themselves.

* Sharp teeth: They have sharp, backward-pointing teeth that help them secure their prey and prevent them from escaping.

* Deep-sea habitat: They live in the deep ocean, where food is scarce, so they need to be able to eat whatever they can find.

While they are known for their impressive swallowing abilities, it's important to note that they don't always succeed in swallowing large prey. Sometimes, the prey is too big or struggles too much, and the black swallower ends up with a full stomach and a very uncomfortable meal.