Despite only being 1 mm in size, these shrimp-like creatures of the deep ostracods can do something that will undoubtedly be a big surprise. Although, I’m just assuming you haven’t spent much time around light-vomiting fish before. (That’s right, light-vomiting fish. Seriously.) This is an actual thing that this little creature can do.
It almost looks like they’re shooting lasers. You’ll have to see it to believe it.
When an ostracod gets frightened, they release a bioluminescent chemical.
The light warns predators to stay away. If it’s too late for that, it will let them know that they made a big mistake.
Most fish will avoid eating the ostracods and their glowing liquid, as it might attract even bigger, more dangerous fish.
(via This Is Colossal)
It seems like this shouldn’t even be possible, but yes, these tiny fish really do shoot “lasers” from their mouths. For more on these crazy-cool crustaceans, check out the video below.
I never thought I could be freaked out by something that small and adorable. If you’re ever swimming in an ocean trench (IMPOSSIBLE), just make sure you don’t eat any glowing fish. You’ll have a bad time.
