NAGS HEAD, N.C., May 19 (UPI) -- A lancet fish, a mysterious creature known for its cannibalistic tendencies, washed ashore last week near Jennette's Pier in North Carolina's Nags Head Beach.
The lancet fish is rare. But a quick look at the species, and one might decide it's better that way. Outfitted with big, round eyes, an oversized mouth and long, sharp fangs, the lancet fish isn't winning any beauty contests.
But it's hideous appearance and brother-eating habits didn't stop local pier attendant Leif Rasmussen from capturing the fish as it was washed into the shallows.
After a few pictures, the lancet fish, which can grow up to 6.5 feet, was released back into the ocean.
When the lancet fish isn't snagging members of his own species, it mostly subsists on crabs. Related to yellowfin tuna and swordfish, the only time the lancet fish is usually spotted is when deep sea tuna fishermen accidentally catch one.
