A black seadevil sighting in Tenerife is highly unusual, as this fish is typically only found at depths between 200 and 2,000 meters.
On January 26, 2025, a remarkable sighting occurred near the coast of Playa San Juan, in the municipality of Guía de Isora, Tenerife. A specimen of the deep-sea fish Melanocetus johnsonii, commonly known as the abyssal black seadevil or diablo negro, was spotted at the surface in broad daylight—an extremely rare phenomenon. The sighting, filmed and shared on social media, has generated confusion and fascination, particularly concerning the actual size of this mysterious deep-sea fish.
A deep-sea fish in shallow waters
The abyssal black seadevil belongs to the Melanocetidae family and is known for its terrifying appearance and unique adaptations to deep-sea life. This species normally inhabits depths between 200 and 2,000 meters, far from sunlight, where extreme pressure and cold temperatures prevail. Its most distinctive feature is the bioluminescent lure on its head, an organ that emits light due to the presence of symbiotic bacteria. This serves as a bait to attract prey in the dark abyssal waters.
The fact that a specimen of this species was found in shallow coastal waters is exceptional and suggests an abnormal situation. Marine biologist Laia Valor, who was involved in analyzing the specimen, suggested that the animal may have been brought to the surface by upwelling ocean currents, suffered from a pathological condition, or even attempted to escape a predator. Unfortunately, the fish was found dead and was later transferred to the Museum of Nature and Archaeology in Santa Cruz de Tenerife for further examination.
Actual size and misconceptions
The video capturing the sighting sparked much debate among internet users regarding the real size of the diablo negro. Some viewers initially believed the fish was up to two meters long, an assumption that does not align with scientific literature. In reality, Melanocetus johnsonii is a relatively small fish. Most specimens measure between 20 and 30 centimeters, although some females can grow up to 50 centimeters in exceptional cases.
The confusion about the size may be due to distortions caused by water and light or simply by a lack of familiarity with this rare species. Males of this species are significantly smaller, barely reaching a few centimeters. They live as parasites attached to females, a phenomenon unique to certain deep-sea fish.
Exceptional sighting
Although dead deep-sea fish occasionally wash ashore, it is extremely rare to observe an abyssal black seadevil in the open sea near the water’s surface. This is largely due to the physiological characteristics of these animals, which are adapted to life under high pressure and complete darkness.
Possible explanations for this rare sighting include:
Upwelling currents:
Deep-sea currents can bring dead or dying animals to the surface. Climate change and oceanic disturbances:
Fluctuations in temperature and the chemical composition of water may impact the habitat of deep-sea species.
Decreased oxygen levels:
In some cases, deep-sea fish may move to shallower waters due to a reduction in oxygen levels at greater depths.
Predation: The fish may have been fleeing from a predator and became trapped in an environment unsuitable for its survival.
The importance of deep-sea research
The sighting of the abyssal black seadevil in Tenerife is an exceptional opportunity for marine scientists to learn more about this mysterious species. Since they typically live at great depths, much of their behavior and biology remains largely unknown. Scientists hope that further research on the specimen will provide greater insight into deep-sea biodiversity and the potential effects of environmental changes on these enigmatic inhabitants of the abyssal zone.
The discovery near Playa San Juan serves as a reminder of how little we still know about the deep sea and its fascinating creatures. Although the diablo negro has a fearsome appearance, it is a remarkable example of evolution and adaptation. Scientists and nature enthusiasts alike continue to hope that future studies and technologies will help unveil more secrets of the deep ocean.
If you want to know more about fishing in the Atlantic waters around the Canary Islands, you can read about it [HERE].
David Jara Boguñá © Photography
Black Seadevil in Tenerife ©
Sources: Condrik Tenerife (NGO) Museum of Nature and Archaeology, Santa Cruz de Tenerife Marine biologist Laia Valor Video recordings: David Jara Boguñá
More NEWS can be read [HERE].
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