The ice lanternfish, also known scientifically as Benthosema glaciale, is a small deep-sea fish found in the cold waters of the northern Atlantic. In Quebec, although it is not a common target for sport fishing due to its modest size and abyssal nature, it plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystem by serving as prey for many predators. Its distribution is mainly in the deep waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and around Anticosti Island. This fish does not really provide an interesting fight for anglers, but it is fascinating for those interested in marine diversity and the adaptations of deep-sea fish.

The ice lanternfish is a relatively small fish, typically measuring between 4 and 6 cm in length. Its body is slender and laterally compressed, with a silvery coloration that allows it to camouflage in the deep waters where it lives. One of the most distinctive features of this fish is the presence of photophores, or light organs, along its flanks, from which it derives its name. These photophores emit a bluish light that aids in communication and predator deterrence. Its mouth is small and slightly upward-facing, adapted for capturing zooplankton. The fins are delicate and translucent, as is its forked tail, which gives it good maneuverability in the water.

In Quebec, the ice lanternfish is primarily found in the deep waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and around Anticosti Island. These areas provide the cold and dark conditions ideal for this species. It is also found in other parts of the North Atlantic, but it is uncommon in warmer and shallower waters. Due to its deep habitat, it is rarely observed by recreational or professional fishermen. Its presence is important for the marine ecosystem, as it constitutes a food source for many larger fish and marine mammals.

The ice lanternfish prefers deep waters, often beyond 200 meters, where sunlight does not penetrate. These conditions are typical of the abyssal zones of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. It is well adapted to cold temperatures, generally between 2 and 6 °C, and thrives in environments where the pressure is high. It is often found near continental slopes, where it can feed on zooplankton and small crustaceans. Physical structures such as submarine canyons and seamounts also provide rich prey habitats for this species.

The life cycle of the ice lanternfish begins with the spawning of eggs in deep waters. The eggs hatch into larvae that drift with the plankton before developing into juveniles. Maturity is reached in about a year. The longevity of this fish is relatively short, often between 3 and 5 years, which is typical for small fish. Adults live in large schools, which increases their chances of survival against predators.

Spring → Spawning and hatching of eggs → Summer → Rapid growth of juveniles → Autumn → Sexual maturity → Winter → Schooling for protection

The ice lanternfish is a social fish, living in schools that can be very dense. This schooling behavior helps reduce the risk of predation. It is not territorial and often moves in response to changes in temperature and food availability. Due to its deep habitat, it is little affected by surface weather conditions such as wind or rain, but it may be sensitive to changes in underwater pressure. Light, or its absence, plays a crucial role in its daily behavior, influencing its nocturnal vertical migrations to feed.

The diet of the ice lanternfish consists mainly of zooplankton, including copepods and small crustaceans. Young fish feed on plankton larvae, while adults consume slightly larger prey. This diet varies little with the season, as the species lives in a stable deep environment, where food availability is relatively constant throughout the year.

The ice lanternfish is not a target for sport fishing in Quebec due to its size and deep habitat. However, its biological activity shows seasonal variations. In summer, schools may rise slightly in the water column to take advantage of the greater abundance of zooplankton. In winter, they remain deeper to avoid temperature fluctuations. Their feeding behavior is primarily nocturnal, with vertical migrations to feed when light is minimal. Surface weather conditions have little impact on this species, but changes in underwater pressure may influence their swimming depth.

Since the ice lanternfish is not targeted for sport fishing, information on lures and colors is generally not relevant. However, for scientific study, non-invasive methods such as photophore lighting may be used to attract and observe these fish in their natural habitat.

Capturing the ice lanternfish for scientific studies requires specialized equipment such as plankton nets or light traps. These tools must be designed to operate at great depths under high pressure. For observations, submersible cameras equipped with discreet lights are often used to minimize stress and disturbances on natural populations.

In case of capture, it is essential to handle the ice lanternfish carefully to avoid damaging its delicate light organs. Release should be done quickly to ensure its survival, ideally using capture and handling techniques that minimize stress. Photographs should be taken quickly and with soft lighting to avoid harming the animal.

Predators of the ice lanternfish include larger fish such as cod and haddock, as well as some marine mammals like seals. Seabirds, although less frequent due to the deep habitat of the ice lanternfish, may consume these fish when they are pushed to the surface.

Currently, the ice lanternfish is not considered a threatened species in Quebec. However, climate change and marine pollution pose potential threats to its deep habitats. Managing these threats involves monitoring populations and protecting sensitive marine areas. Release is generally not an issue for this species, as it is not targeted by commercial or sport fishing.