Deep-Sea Fish & Pressure: Do They Explode When Brought to the Surface?

Deep-sea fish have adapted bodies that allow them to withstand the immense pressure in the depths of the ocean. This pressure keeps their bodies from being crushed and also helps them maintain their body temperature. When a deep-sea fish is brought to the surface, the sudden decrease in pressure causes its body to expand rapidly. This rapid expansion can cause the fish's eyes to pop out, its body to rupture, and its internal organs to be damaged. In some cases, the fish may even explode.

To prevent deep-sea fish from exploding, they must be brought to the surface slowly. This allows their bodies to adjust to the change in pressure and prevents them from being damaged. Special decompression chambers are often used to bring deep-sea fish to the surface safely.