During the day, it is found in waters as deep as 200 metres (660 ft).

On moonless nights,[2] it ascends to shallow waters around 25 metres (82 ft) in depth where it feeds on small shrimp and copepods as it swims over the ocean floor.

This species is the only known member of the genus Kryptophanaron and can be found in the aquarium trade.

[citation needed] Kryptophanaron alfredi has a special organ near its mouth that is specially adapted for the growth of luminescent bacteria (Photobacterium).

[1] Although not much is known about the population of K. alfredi due to its deep-water habitat and nocturnal behavior, it is listed as "Least Concern" by the IUCN because of its large range and lack of major threats.