What Is Pacific Lamprey? Ancient blood-draining creature that outlived dinosaurs

The Pacific Lamprey is a jawless fish that has lived on Earth for an astounding 45 million years. This ancient creature has managed to endure multiple mass extinctions, thriving despite the passage of time. Known scientifically as Entosphenus tridentatus, the Pacific Lamprey is a truly remarkable survivor, having once preyed on dinosaurs and even trees. Its unique feeding habits and ability to adapt to changing environments make it a fascinating subject of study.

A creature from an ancient era

Originating from the ancient group of fish known as Agnatha, the Pacific Lamprey is one of the oldest living species. These creatures are primarily found in the North Pacific Ocean, stretching from California to Alaska, and even reaching the Bering Sea, from Russia to Japan. Despite the extinction events that have wiped out countless species, the Pacific Lamprey has managed to persist.

Watch the full video of Grand Ronde Tribal member and Smoke Signals social media/digital journalist Kamiah Koch traditionally harvesting Pacific lamprey at Willamette Falls with her cousin, Tribal member Jade Unger at https://t.co/u0i0E04Yg2 pic.twitter.com/pXLioNgFcl

— Smoke Signals (@CTGRsmoksignelz) August 11, 2022

An unusual diet and feeding habits

Unlike most fish, the Pacific Lamprey does not have jaws. Instead, it has a specialized mouth lined with rows of small teeth that enable it to latch onto its prey and suck their bodily fluids. This bloodsucking diet consists of salmon, flatfish, rockfish, and hake. Lampreys drain the life out of their prey, leaving them weakened or dead, but they do not consume the flesh.

Structure of a Lamprey's body

The Pacific Lamprey’s body is composed of cartilage rather than bones, making it a flexible and resilient creature. The absence of jaws doesn’t hinder its ability to feed—its unique mouth structure is adapted to siphon blood from its victims.

Reproduction and lifecycle

Female lampreys are prolific egg layers, depositing up to 200,000 eggs in clean, fresh waters. The larvae then burrow into the riverbed and remain there for a minimum of ten years before maturing and migrating to lower-flowing waters. As adults, they can grow up to 33 inches long and swim hundreds of kilometers in search of food and breeding grounds.

Ecological importance

The Pacific Lamprey plays a crucial role in the ecosystem. While they are an important food source for birds, mammals, and other fish, they also help maintain the health of aquatic environments. Their resilience and unique lifestyle make them a true testament to the adaptability of life on Earth.