Black swallowers are deep-sea creatures that can be found at depths ranging from 700 to 3,000 meters. Despite being relatively small at 25 cm in length, they can swallow prey that is twice as long and ten times heavier than they are. Their distinct physical features such as a wide mouth, large abdomen, and teeth that act as traps for their prey help them capture and consume prey larger than themselves.
Black swallowers are distributed in various sea areas around the world, including the tropical and temperate waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. However, observing them in their natural habitat can be challenging as they typically reside in deep, sunless waters. Living solitary lives, black swallowers have evolved to thrive in the deep ocean environment by developing dark, scaleless bodies that help them remain camouflaged.
When they encounter prey, their wide mouth with sharp, interlocking teeth allows them to quickly consume it while preventing escape. However, this feeding strategy can sometimes lead to complications such as bloating if the swallowed prey begins to decompose before digestion is complete. Historically black swallowers have been described in various accounts of ocean exploration dating back to the early 19th century highlighting their unique physical characteristics such as their split mouth equipped with movable hook-shaped teeth.
Despite these challenges black swallowers continue to captivate researchers and marine enthusiasts alike due to their remarkable adaptations required to survive in extreme conditions of the deep sea. Their hunting techniques and physical attributes have intrigued researchers for centuries making them a subject of interest in the study of marine biology and ocean ecology.