Dalatias licha, commonly known as the kitefin shark, is a deep-sea species inhabiting continental and insular slopes worldwide. Notable for its bioluminescent skin, it uses light to camouflage and avoid predators. This slow-moving shark preys on fish and invertebrates, playing a crucial role in oceanic ecosystems.

Dalatias licha, commonly known as the kitefin shark, is found in the deep waters of the Atlantic Ocean, including both the eastern and western regions. It is also present in the Mediterranean Sea and parts of the Indian Ocean, particularly around the coasts of South Africa, Madagascar, and the Arabian Sea. This species is observed in the Pacific Ocean as well, notably around Japan, Australia, and New Zealand.

The kitefin shark inhabits deep-sea environments, typically found at depths ranging from 200 to 600 meters, although it can be found much deeper. The waters it inhabits are cold, with temperatures often ranging from 4 to 14 degrees Celsius. The species prefers continental and insular slopes, submarine ridges, and seamounts, often over muddy or sandy substrates.

Dalatias licha is a slow-moving, benthopelagic predator and scavenger, feeding on a variety of prey including bony fish, cephalopods, and crustaceans. It is well-adapted to the low-light conditions of its deep-sea habitat, utilizing its large eyes to detect prey in the darkness. The kitefin shark also exhibits bioluminescence, which may play a role in camouflage and predation.