Angler fish attracts its preys through

Options

A. Bait present over the tip of first ray
B. Leaf like skin flaps
C. Phosphorescence
D. All the above

Answer

To answer the question "How does the angler fish attract its prey?", let's break down the information step by step.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Angler Fish**: The angler fish, scientifically known as Lophius, is primarily found in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.

2. **Understanding the Lure Mechanism**: The angler fish has a unique adaptation for attracting prey. It possesses long spines that are modified dorsal fins located at the middle of its head.

3. **Role of the First Spine**: Among these spines, the first one is particularly large and functions as a lure. This lure mimics the appearance of prey, enticing other fish to come closer.

4. **Skin Characteristics**: The skin of the angler fish is loose and lacks scales. This loose skin is fringed at the midline of the body, forming leaf-like skin flaps that can also assist in capturing prey.

5. **Light Emission**: The angler fish has the ability to emit light, a phenomenon known as phosphorescence. This light serves to attract prey from a distance, making it easier for the angler fish to hunt.

6. **Conclusion**: Given the various methods by which the angler fish attracts its prey—using the lure (first spine), the leaf-like skin flaps, and the ability to emit light—it can be concluded that all the options provided in the question are correct.

### Final Answer:
The angler fish attracts its prey through **all of the above** methods: the bait present over the tip of the first ray, leaf-like skin flaps, and phosphorescence.

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