Hobbies And Interests
Stingrays
Stingrays, a relative of sharks, feed on the ocean floor in shallow areas. Stingrays are known for a small, venomous spine on their tails that protects them from predators. Though they have well-developed eyes, they do not use them for hunting. Instead, these rays rely mainly on an electrical sense that allows them to detect their prey buried in the sand. Stingray diet consists mostly of mollusks, such as clams, mussels and oysters.
Tripod Fish
Tripod fish are strange-looking fish found on the plains of the deep ocean. Three of their fins have a single, downward-pointing, long ray, which act together as a tripod for "walking" on the soft substrate. These antenna-shaped fins also act as sensors. The tripod fish can feel vibrations in their walking fins, which helps them hunt for their prey. Additionally, these fish are unique in that they have male and female sex organs.
Frogfish
Frogfish are masters of camouflage. Their lumpy, splotch-colored bodies blend in with rocks, corals and other debris on the sea floor. They lack swim bladders, organs most fish have that allow them to float in the water column. Instead, frogfish waddle across the bottom on stubby legs. Some frogfish actually have a lure, a small organ suspended on their heads, which they can wiggle to attract fish. The angler can then eat prey slightly larger than itself.
Wobbegong
Wobbegong, or carpet sharks, are found around the world. Their camouflage pattern resembles a carpet and is similar to their larger relatives, the whale sharks. Their bodies are flattened to help them feed on the ocean floor. Like stingrays, they use an electrical sense to find mollusks and crustaceans to prey on. They are found around the world, but most often near Australia. Some carpet sharks lay eggs, but some give live birth. This is unusual for a fish.