Deep water cusk eel larvae

Deep sea creatures take on an alien-like perspective and few play their part better than this deep water cusk eel (Lamprogrammus sp.). It’s unknown exactly why it’s intestines are draped outside its body but some ideas are that it allows this one inch larval fish to absorb nutrients faster affording it faster growth rates. Other possible thoughts is it can appear larger or even mimic a stinging siphonophore thus detering predation. Deep water cusk eels can reach lengths of up to 6 feet!