June 22, 2010

Report Details

We found a Longnose Lancetfish, (Alepisaurus ferox) washed up on the beach near China Creek, Bandon, Oregon (N43.07524 W124.43339 estimated gps using Google Earth). This fish was 150 cm long (4 ft 11 1/2 inches). When we first looked at it, we noticed that it had a dorsal fin and were amazed at how large this fin was when Dave extended it. In addition to this large fin along the back there is a smaller "adipose fin" near the end of the tail. The eye was an incredible blue color—it looked almost like a gem. There was a strong raised lateral line along the side of this fish. In reading about this fish, we learned that it is a deep-water predator and can range to over 6000 feet deep, as well as close to shore. Apparently, the fish feeds on shrimp and squid. The Western Gulls were already starting to eat this fish and that is why there is a small hole near the lower fin and a couple of organs starting to spill out.