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Juvenile blacksaddle filefish
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Juvenile blacksaddle filefish
Juvenile blacksaddle filefish (Paraluteres prionurus) mimicking a black-saddled toby (puffer) fish (Canthigaster valentini) beside hard coral. This fish is found throughout the Indo-Pacific. It mimics the poisonous black-saddled puffer fish to confuse potential predators, however it is actually harmless. Photographed off Sangalaki Island, in the Sulawesi Sea, Indonesia
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Media ID 6459089
© MATTHEW OLDFIELD/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Batesian Mimicry Bony Fish Borneo Coral Corals Dark Derawan Islands File Fish Hard Coral Indo Pacific Indonesia Juvenile Kalimantan Marine Life Mimic Mimicking Mimicry Night Nocturnal Pisces Puffer Fish Sangalaki Island Southeast Asia Sulawesi Sea Young Paraluteres Prionurus
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the incredible mimicry abilities of the juvenile blacksaddle filefish (Paraluteres prionurus) found in the Indo-Pacific. In this shot taken off Sangalaki Island, Indonesia, a young filefish can be seen perfectly imitating a black-saddled toby fish (Canthigaster valentini) beside vibrant hard coral. The purpose behind this remarkable disguise is to confuse potential predators. The blacksaddle filefish mimics the appearance of its poisonous counterpart, the black-saddled puffer fish, creating an illusion that deters would-be attackers. However, despite its deceptive exterior, this little creature is harmless. Underwater photography allows us to witness nature's wonders up close and personal. This single image captures the essence of marine life in Southeast Asia's Sulawesi Sea and highlights the intricate biology at play beneath the ocean surface. The dark hues and nocturnal behavior of these bony fish add an air of mystery to their existence. As they navigate through tropical waters near Borneo's Derawan Islands, their mimicry skills are put on full display during nightfall. With its stunning colors and intricate patterns blending seamlessly with hard coral formations, this photograph serves as a testament to both the beauty and complexity of underwater ecosystems. It reminds us that even in seemingly ordinary moments like these, there is always something extraordinary happening beneath our oceans' waves.
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