Today, let's delve into the truth about the abyssal depths of the ocean. The so-called deep sea abyss lies below 1,000 meters, where sunlight cannot penetrate and pressure is immense. More than half of the Earth's surface is covered by these abyssal zones, yet it wasn't until 88 years ago (in 1934) that humans first ventured to its edges. To date, we have only explored about 1% of this region. So, what wonders lie hidden in the depths?

Descending into the deepest realms, we encounter secrets rooted in genetic mysteries. At around 800 meters deep, in the Mesopelagic zone, there remains a glimmer of light known as the twilight zone. Here, we find extraordinary creatures like the telescopefish, which has helped scientists unravel the enigma of deep-sea animal eyes. Have you ever wondered how these eyes track prey in the pitch-black depths?

Initially, scientists were baffled. However, in 2001, experts captured a scene at 1,214 meters depth that revealed the answer. Telescopefish vertically position themselves in the deep sea, their telescopic eyes scanning the waters above. When the last ray of sunlight filters down, casting a shadow of prey overhead, they strike with precision, clamping down on their unsuspecting meal. Food is hard-won in these depths, which is why deep-sea fish often sport exaggerated teeth.

Take the monstrous fangtooth fish (Malacosteus), which boasts a detached jaw devoid of flesh, resembling a bear trap.

Beyond the bear trap strategy, there's also the vacuum cleaner strategy. Consider the barreleye fish (Macropinna microstoma), which instantly extends its mouth to create negative pressure, sucking prey from above. While scientists haven't yet captured this process in action, theoretically, it operates akin to the extendable mouth of the deep-sea gulper eel.

Combining the bear trap and vacuum cleaner strategies, we have the infamous pelican eel, which surprises its prey with an enormous gaping maw.