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13132575. Amazon leaffish, Monocirrhus polyacanthus, swimming alongside dead leafs
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13132575. Amazon leaffish, Monocirrhus polyacanthus, swimming alongside dead leafs
Amazon leaffish, Monocirrhus polyacanthus, swimming alongside dead leafs (mimic effect) for protection from predators. It is found in the Amazon basin in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Peru and Venezuela, where it inhabits edges of rivers and lakes, and streams. It lives in slow-moving or essentially stagnant waters in areas with plant debris. As suggested by its common name, it closely resembles a dead leaf. The flattened body and filament at the tip of the lower jaw (resembling a stalk) further enhances its similarity to a leaf. It is gray-brown, but can change its color to some extent. There is no lateral line and its large mouth can be protracted to as much as 60% of the head length. It swims very slowly in a head-down position, resembling a dead leaf floating in the current, to approach its prey. When near, it protracts its mouth to form a tube. The prey is rapidly sucked in, usually head-first. Prey in its stomach is often folded, allowing the leaf fish to fit relatively large items. From Amazonas river Date
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Nature's Master of Disguise - The Amazon Leaffish and Its Leafy Camouflage
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. In this photo print, we witness the incredible mimicry skills of the Amazon leaffish, also known as Monocirrhus polyacanthus. This clever creature has mastered the art of blending in with its surroundings by resembling a dead leaf floating effortlessly in the water. Found in the lush depths of the Amazon basin, this elusive fish calls Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and Venezuela its home. It prefers to inhabit edges of rivers and lakes where slow-moving or stagnant waters are abundant with plant debris - perfect for creating its disguise. With a flattened body that mirrors a lifeless leaf and a filament at the tip of its lower jaw that resembles a delicate stalk, this master impersonator takes camouflage to new heights. Its gray-brown coloration can even change slightly to match different environments. Swimming ever so slowly in a head-down position like an innocent leaf caught in gentle currents, it approaches unsuspecting prey. When near enough, it protracts its mouth into a tube-like shape and swiftly sucks in its meal - usually head-first! Remarkably flexible stomach folds allow it to consume relatively large items. So next time you're exploring the wonders of nature along the mighty Amazonas river, keep an eye out for this fascinating creature disguised as just another fallen leaf. You never know what other hidden gems Mother Nature might have up her sleeve!
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