In early February 2025, a marine photographer, David Jara Boguñá, recorded what is believed to be the first images of a living adult black seadevil, a type of angler fish.

People may remember this strange looking fish from the Disney movie Finding Nemo. In the movie, a black seadevil angler chases Dory and Marlin. These fish typically live at depths between 650–6,600 feet, a region where sunlight does not reach. In order to thrive in the pitchblack waters, anglerfish have adapted. For example, a special lure sits upon its head. This rod emits light to attract its prey in the darkness of the deep sea. Despite their scary appearance, most females of this species are quite small, growing to be about 20 centimeters or 8 inches. This particular fish was reported to be smaller than 6 inches.

The reasons behind this anglerfish’s travels from its habitat remain a mystery. In fact, deep-sea creatures can be highly affected by pressure changes when rising to the surface. Unfortunately, the black seadevil passed away a short time after her now famous ascent.

The fish and her journey have sparked the imagination and curiosity of people worldwide. Many on social media platforms have been recording their reactions, often seeing a deeper meaning than just a fish. To a few, she is a symbol of perseverance since a journey like hers will be long and arduous. Others see her as an explorer in an unfamiliar world. Many see her as a carrier of light finally finding her own. Some people have created art and videos of her journey. Here are some of the many comments left under different TikTok videos of the black seadevil anglerfish:

@Peanut butter: “I have carried my own lantern through a world that never saw me, yet I long for a sun that will never rise in my sky.” – Angler Fish

@Hannaheh02: “And for my last day, I will go see the sun.”

@Kimberley Van DeRossa: “I have spent my whole life carrying a light no one could follow. So for my final day, I chose to chase one I never made.” — Anglerfish

A different sea creature video went viral showed a humpback whale swallowing a kayaker before spitting him out after a few seconds.

https://www.discoverwildlife.com/animal-facts/marine-animals/humpback-anglerfish-tenerife

https://www.npr.org/2025/02/14/nx-s1-5297762/whale-swallows-kayaker-video-explained