Researchers got up close and personal with a crocodile fish. But, despite its scary-sounding name, these fish are surprisingly shy.
Alan Friedlander and researchers from National Geographic Pristine Seas captured footage of the crocodile fish (Cymbacephalus beauforti) during a three-month expedition to assess the health of the waters off Papua New Guinea.
“Crocodile fish have elongated bodies and large duckbill-like heads that resemble – you guessed it – a crocodile,” says National Geographic Pristine Seas. “These fish are masters of camouflage.”
Also known as de Beaufort's flathead, crocodile fish have mottled patterns to help them camouflage against the reef.
“Even their eyes are camouflaged!” says Pristine Seas. “Crocodile fish have retractable flesh that hangs down over their eyes, called lappets, that break up the outline of their black iris.”
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Like the terrestrial crocs they are named after, these flatheads are lay-in-wait predators that ambush unsuspecting prey.
“Crocodile fish feed by rapidly and forcefully opening their jaws creating a suction vortex and drawing their prey into their gaping mouth,” the organisation explains.
But despite their intimidating name and appearance, these fish are scaredy-cats, says Pristine Seas: “Crocodile fish will likely bolt upon seeing a human.”
Main image: Crocodile fish/Manu San Félix, National Geographic Pristine Seas
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