In the oceanic abysses there is a constant, dramatic struggle for survival. It is dominated by marine predators – majestic sharks, impressive sperm whales and monkfish, also known as sea devils. These species are not only fascinating in their hunting abilities, but also awe-inspiring in the strength and intelligence they use in their hunts. Let’s discover the secrets of their marine hunting strategies.
Sharks – evolutionarily advanced marine predators
Sharks, which are among the oldest vertebrate predators on Earth, have undergone a complex evolutionary process that has equipped them with advanced anatomical features fundamental to their hunting techniques.
Prominent among them are hammerhead sharks(Sphyrnidae) from the shark family. Their distinctive, flattened hammer-like head not only facilitates maneuvering in the depths, but also allows them to make rapid turns. Eyes located on the sides of the head provide sharks with a panoramic field of vision, making it easier to detect and track potential prey. In addition, large species of hammerhead sharks use their unique heads to press benthic fish to the bottom, preventing them from escaping.
Tiger sharks(Galeocerdo cuvier) from the shark family are distinguished by their exceptionally quiet way of moving when hunting. Their streamlined body and special plakoid scales significantly reduce water resistance, allowing them to approach potential prey – such as fish, birds, marine mammals and turtles – without arousing their vigilance. These sharks attack by surprise, using their sharp, curved teeth, deeply embedded in their jaws, which easily cut through the skin and bones of their prey.
Tiger sharks also show the ability to pursue their prey for long periods of time, leading to fatigue and weakness. They hunt strategically, circling their prey and watching their reactions to choose the best moment to attack. By using their 7 senses, they rarely miss a chance to get food.
Sperm whales – masters of deep-sea diving
Along with sharks, the deep sea is also home to sperm whales(Physeter macrocephalus) – the largest toothed whales in the world, weighing up to 57 tons and up to 20 meters long. They are known for their deep, sometimes exceeding 1 km, dives in search of food, which can last up to 90 minutes. Their diet is dominated by a variety of squid species, including giant colossal squid(Mesonychoteuthis hamiltoni) and giant squid(Architeuthis dux), as well as deep-sea fish and octopus.
To locate prey in deep-sea darkness, sperm whales use an echolocation technique . They emit a series of high-frequency clicks that bounce off objects in their environment. By analyzing the returning echoes, these marine mammals are able to accurately determine the distance, size and shape of their prey. This ability allows them to hunt effectively even in total darkness. During dives, they move slowly and methodically, scanning their surroundings. When they locate potential prey, they suddenly accelerate to capture it. Despite their formidable size, they are surprisingly agile, allowing them to make quick maneuvers.
Frogfish – attracting prey like skilled anglers
Frogfish(Lophius piscatorius), commonly known as sea devils, are unusual creatures of the family Lophiidae that inhabit the depths of the oceans. Their unusual appearance with their large head, flattened body and wide mouth equipped with sharp teeth makes them one of the most original marine predators.
The most distinctive feature of anglerfish is the illicium – a transformed dorsal fin that acts like a fishing rod. At its tip is the esca, a fleshy appendage that glows in the darkness of the ocean thanks to the phenomenon of bioluminescence. This luminous phenomenon serves as a lure, attracting unsuspecting fish and other sea creatures that misinterpret it as a food source.
Monkfish, although they hunt mainly small fish, octopus, squid, shrimp and crabs, are capable of hunting larger prey as well. Their hunting method involves camouflaging themselves among the seafloor or rocks and coral reefs. In complete silence and invisible to their prey, they move illicium, with which they effectively lure their prey. When the prey gets close enough, the anglerfish opens its mouth in the blink of an eye and sucks in the water along with it. Sharp, inward-facing teeth prevent the prey from escaping.
Predators of the deep sea have not only achieved mastery in the art of underwater fishing. They are also indispensable guardians of marine ecosystems, for which their role in regulating the populations of other species is critical to maintaining biological balance. Acting as natural regulators, they ensure the health and stability of their environment, which underscores their importance in marine food chains.