The Phantom Anglerfish, Haplophryne mollis, belongs to a group of anglerfish known as the Ghostly Seadevils. Part of the scientific name of this species (the genus) translates to "simple toad." Prominent spines and the opaque, pigment free tissue are diagnostic for the species, which is found in all three major oceans of the world. The bulb that sits on the front of the face is a "fishing lure" known as an esca. The esca is bioluminescent and accommodates bioluminescent bacteria, which are responsible for the light production. The lure is used to attract potential prey items to within striking distance. In this species the "rod," or the fin ray that attaches the lure to the fishes' body, is short, keeping the lure close to the face. This individual was captured between 1200 meters depth and the surface in the Gulf of Mexico, 2011.