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Anglerfish Lures Evolved Over 72 Million Years, Study Reveals

4/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

New research in Ichthyology & Herpetology shows anglerfish lures evolved over 72 million years, initially to attract prey and to aid mate communication in the dark depths.
The study was led by biologists Alex Maile and Matthew Davis.
Anglerfish have developed diverse lures, including bioluminescent and chemical variants.
Researchers used preserved specimens to build an evolutionary tree, illustrating anglerfish adaptability across ocean habitats.

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Story summary

New research in Ichthyology & Herpetology shows anglerfish lures evolved over 72 million years, initially to attract prey and to aid mate communication in the dark depths.
The study was led by biologists Alex Maile and Matthew Davis.
Anglerfish have developed diverse lures, including bioluminescent and chemical variants.
Researchers used preserved specimens to build an evolutionary tree, illustrating anglerfish adaptability across ocean habitats.