What Do Dragonfish Eat?

Dragonfish primarily feed on small fish and crustaceans. Deep sea dragonfish and abyssal dragonfish primarily feed on fish and cephalopods. Dragonfish are piscivorous, meaning they mainly eat other fish. Some species of dragonfish are also known to feed on squid, shrimp, and other invertebrates.

Like many other deep sea fish, dragonfish use bioluminescence to attract prey. They have a lure that can be either bioluminescent or have bioluminescent bacteria living on it. This lure attracts smaller prey, such as small fish and crustaceans, which become stunned and confused by the light. The dragonfish then uses its large teeth and powerful jaws to grasp and consume the prey.