- According to the scientific study published in journal Matter, researchers have solved the puzzle behind the transparent teeth of dragonfish.
- Researchers collected 10 dragonfish (Aristostomias scintillans ) with a fishing net. They analyzed 40 of their teeth using detailed imaging to capture the teeth’s colors, makeup, and structure.
- Like human teeth, the dragonfish’s teeth have a dense inner dentin layer surrounded by an outer enamellike layer.
- Dispersed throughout the enamel, however, the researchers found tiny nanocrystals that prevent light from reflecting off of the teeth’s surface and camouflage them in the deep ocean.
- The teeth are also thinner than most predators’, which helps them scatter less light and appear translucent.
- Despite dragonfish’s small size—only about 15 centimeters long—they are apex predators and can kill fish up to 50% of their size.
- Their teeth may be key: Because the fish have jet-black mouths, their teeth are practically invisible, so most prey never see them coming.
