In our ever-evolving world, the realm of scientific knowledge holds captivating mysteries, especially when it comes to the intricacies of facts about fish.
Fish, as denizens of the aquatic world, harbor fascinating secrets that contribute to the richness of our understanding.
Cited from the wikipedia.org page, fish are members of the poikilothermic vertebrate or cold-blooded animals that live in water and breathe through gills. Fish represent the most diverse group of vertebrates with over 27,000 species worldwide.
Fun Facts About Fish
Here are some facts about fish that many people may not know:
1. Fact that Fish Can Move Backward
Contrary to common knowledge, some fish have the ability to move backward. This backward swimming method is called balistiform, where fish move by waving their dorsal and anal fins.
They have inclined fins that allow them to push forward, enabling them to move backward. An example of such fish is the Triggerfish.
2. Fish Drink Using Gills
Water plays a crucial role in the life of living organisms, especially for drinking. Fish, despite having gills primarily for respiration, also use their gills to drink.
Even though fish live in water, they still need to drink because their bodies consist of cells that function with the presence of water.
3. Fish Can Live Up to 90 Years
Is it true that some fish can live up to 90 years? What kind of fish is that? Indeed, there is a type of fish capable of surviving up to 90 years, known as Lungfish.
Lungfish can endure living on land or in sand without water for extended periods, even up to several years.
4. Fish Without Tails
The Mola-mola or Sunfish is a type of fish that doesn’t have a tail. Not only does it lack a tail fin, but the Sunfish also differs from other fish in that its fins are located above and below its body, rather than on the sides (right-left).
Due to its unique shape, it often becomes a victim of maritime traffic accidents and is at risk of extinction.
5. Fish With Four Eyes
Unlike other fish, a species called Anableps is said to have four eyes. Although dubbed as having four eyes, Anableps actually only has two eyes.
These eyes are equipped with a ribbon of pigment tissue that divides the eyes horizontally into two sides, allowing Anableps to see in two directions: upward and downward in the water.
6. Fastest Fish
Another lesser-known fact about fish is that there is a type of fish whose movement is exceptionally fast, even comparable to the speed of a car.
Yes, this fish is the Sailfish, also known as the sailfish. The rapid movement of the sailfish is supported by its ability to move its fins quickly, especially its broad dorsal fin.
This fin helps reduce drag effects and resistance to its movement. Additionally, its backbone is highly flexible, adding thrust to its body when swimming. Sailfish can reach speeds equivalent to 113 km/h.
7. Determining the Age of Fish
The age of a fish can be determined by examining its scales. By carefully observing the fish scales, you can see patterns of lines, also known as fibers. These fibers increase as the fish ages.
Depending on the fish species, the pattern on the fish can make it challenging to count the lines accurately, making it difficult to determine the fish’s age.
For scaleless fish, determining their age can be done by counting the number of teeth. Similar to counting scales, counting teeth is not an easy task. Therefore, calculating the age of a fish is indeed a challenging endeavor.
8. Sharks Don’t Attack Orcas
Sharks are known as fierce predatory fish. However, sharks do not attack orcas. This is because orcas are larger than sharks and always live in groups. Moreover, orcas have large mouths, allowing them to consume not only sharks but also other fish, whales, and sea lions.
To avoid becoming prey and to catch other fish for their food, sharks have a faster swimming speed than other fish in the sea. Sharks have V-shaped scales that reduce water friction, enabling them to swim at high speeds.
9. Fish Can Sense Vibrations:
Fish can sense vibrations. They have lateral lines, thin and striped fins on their sides, which function to detect vibrations. This part is often referred to as the “inner ear.”
Fish exhibit a high sensitivity to respond to even the smallest sounds, requiring tranquility during fishing. The fins not only detect sounds but also measure water currents and pressure.
These scientific facts about fish, showcasing their diverse and intriguing characteristics. The aquatic world remains an enchanting realm, filled with creatures that defy expectations and inspire awe.
As we conclude this exploration, let it serve as a reminder that our oceans, with their depth and diversity, are a canvas painted with nature’s wonders.
