Scuba diver captures one of the ocean's most bizarre fish

[ASFN Admin]

Scuba diving in the waters surrounding the Galapagos Islands is an incredible experience. Adventurers who slip into the water are likely to meet some of the world's most unique and fascinating marine animals. This scuba diver has captured video of a rare and fascinating sight. An adult peacock flounder can be seen swimming in the open. Flounder are bizarre fish that begin life looking and swimming like typical fish. As they mature, the right eye migrates around the head and situates itself on the left side of the flounder. Both eyes become elevated like tiny periscopes. The flounder swims on its side, flat on the bottom, rarely leaving the cover of the sand and rubble on which it hides. Flounder can change their pigmentation to mimic the surface they are on, requiring as little as 8 seconds to complete a dramatic change. They are masters of camouflage. In studies with flounders, they have even been able to mimic a checkerboard pattern. Flounders are mainly nocturnal, hunting for small fish and crabs that make their home along the bottom of the ocean. To see one like this in broad daylight, especially so far from cover is an incredible sight.

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