Mandarin fish (Synchiropus splendidus)
Scientifically known as Synchiropus splendidus, the mandarin fish, is also one of the most stunningly beautiful and interesting fish in the ocean. They could well be the most distinct patterned creature you have ever seen when you dive.
Actually, the name comes from its bizarre and extreme coloration, which resembles the robes of an Imperial Chinese officer (mandarin).
The mandarin fish is one of the few marine fish which does not have scales. As a protective compensation to its lack of scales, the mandarin fish is protected by a mucous-coated slimy and smelly skin, which not only protects them from most parasitic skin diseases, but also discourages predators due to its horrible taste. Their bright vivid coloration also serves to give out warning to predators of their nasty smell and taste.
Watch:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q2_3la-aOxo
Know more:
http://www.liveaquaria.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=15+1635+551&pcatid=551
http://www.dive-the-world.com/creatures-mandarinfish.php
Photo credits:
https://www.meerwasser-lexikon.de/tiere/242_Synchiropus_splendidus.htm
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Lviatour
#biodiversity #mandarinfish #coolcreatures
It is almost frog-like in its eyes and face, like a hybrid frogfish. I like the colours
ReplyDeleteWith a color palette like that, it really stands out. What a beautiful display.
ReplyDeleteAbout as extravagant than the flamboyant cuttlefish - for similar reasons.
ReplyDeleteWe have one in our tank. They are very cool and very entertaining to watch. They do their own thing and are not bothered by any other fish in the tank.
ReplyDelete