The Walking Fish of the Seamounts
Filmed during recent deep-sea ROV expeditions along Pacific seamounts, the pink sea toad (Chaunacops coloratus) is a specialized member of the anglerfish order (Lophiiformes).
Instead of swimming, it uses heavily modified, jointed pectoral and pelvic fins to stroll across rocky basalt ledges and soft sediment plains, moving with a ponderous, bipedal-like gait.
The Hidden Esca Lure and Giant Gape
Tucked into a small groove between its eyes is a modified dorsal spine called the illicium, tipped with a fluffy sensory lure (esca). When an unsuspecting crab approaches, the sea toad flicks the lure forward in rapid twitches.
Its mouth is cavernous, backed by sharp inward-curving teeth. Opening its jaws in under 15 milliseconds, it creates a powerful vacuum that engulfs prey before the animal can react.
Elastic Armor and Extreme Color Morphs
Juvenile pink sea toads begin life with brilliant azure-blue skin before transitioning into pastel pink, crimson, or golden yellow as they mature.
Its skin is covered in tiny spine-like scales and can inflate with water to double its apparent body size when threatened by predatory sharks, wedging itself tightly between basalt boulders.
