The Two-pronged anglerfish, or Ceratias holboelli, is a deep-sea fish rarely observed in Quebec waters. This fish is better known for its strange appearance than for its sporting interest. It primarily lives in the cold, deep waters of the North Atlantic Ocean, at depths often inaccessible to sport fishermen. Although its capture in Quebec waters is rare, it piques the interest of biologists and marine life enthusiasts due to its unique adaptations to life in the abyss. This fish is not targeted by traditional sport fishing, but it plays an important role in the deep marine ecosystem.

The Two-pronged anglerfish has a distinctive appearance that makes it easily identifiable. Its body is globular and laterally compressed, with skin that seems almost scale-less, although a few small scales are present. The color of this fish ranges from dark brown to black, allowing it to camouflage in the dark depths of the ocean. Its mouth is large and filled with sharp teeth, adapted for capturing prey in total darkness. A notable feature is the luminous lure located on its head, used to attract prey. The fins are small and underdeveloped, making the fish somewhat immobile. Females are generally much larger than males, which can even be parasitic, attaching to the female to feed and reproduce.

In Quebec, the Two-pronged anglerfish is primarily observed in the deep waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and along the Atlantic coast. It is not abundant, and its observation is rare due to its deep and inaccessible habitat. This species prefers marine areas far from the coast, at depths often exceeding 500 meters. Its range extends widely in the North Atlantic Ocean, from Arctic waters to the coasts of Europe and North America.

The Two-pronged anglerfish primarily inhabits the deep and cold waters of the ocean. It is often found at depths ranging from 500 to 2000 meters, where sunlight does not penetrate. These fish prefer muddy or sandy seabeds, where they can camouflage to hunt. The temperature at these depths is generally low, which is ideal for this species. Fishermen rarely encounter them, except under exceptional circumstances when these fish rise to the surface, often due to environmental disturbances.

The reproduction of the Two-pronged anglerfish is fascinating and unique. Females are much larger than males, which are often parasitic. Males attach to the female and physically merge, living dependently. Spawning occurs in the depths, and the eggs float to shallower waters before hatching. Young fish gradually descend to the abyss as they grow. The longevity of these fish is estimated to be between 7 and 10 years.

Spring → Deep spawning → Summer → Egg hatching → Autumn → Young growth → Winter → Descent to depths

The Two-pronged anglerfish is a solitary fish, spending most of its life patiently waiting for prey in the abyss. It is not territorial due to its opportunistic nature and the scarcity of resources in its habitat. This fish is sensitive to changes in pressure and light, but these factors are rarely disturbed at such depths. Noise and weather conditions at the surface have little impact on its behavior.

The diet of the Two-pronged anglerfish mainly consists of small fish and deep-sea crustaceans. Young fish feed on zooplankton and small invertebrates, while adults use their luminous lure to attract larger prey. The availability of prey varies little with the seasons at these depths, but young fish may rise slightly to feed in waters richer in plankton.

The Two-pronged anglerfish is not subject to marked seasonal variations due to its deep habitat. Changes in temperature and weather conditions at the surface do not directly affect this species. However, environmental disturbances can sometimes cause an accidental rise to more accessible depths. The time of day has no significant impact on its hunting activity, which remains constant in the permanent darkness of its habitat.

Since the Two-pronged anglerfish is not a target for traditional sport fishing, the choice of lures and colors is not relevant. However, its natural lure is bioluminescent, which is an adaptation to attract its prey in total darkness.

For the study of this species, deep diving equipment and submersibles are essential. Researchers use underwater cameras and specialized capture equipment to study the Two-pronged anglerfish. No fishing rod or line is needed for this species due to its habitat being unreachable by traditional sport fishing methods.

Due to its deep habitat, the Two-pronged anglerfish is not handled by fishermen. Scientists lucky enough to study it take precautions to minimize stress and injury. Any observation or handling must be performed by trained professionals.

The Two-pronged anglerfish has few predators due to its deep habitat. However, some large deep-sea predators, such as deep-sea sharks, may pose a threat. Environmental changes can also affect its survival.

The conservation status of the Two-pronged anglerfish is not well documented due to its inaccessible habitat. However, climate change and ocean pollution could impact this species. Regulations regarding this species are primarily focused on protecting its deep habitat.