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13132574. Amazon leaffish, Monocirrhus polyacanthus
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13132574. Amazon leaffish, Monocirrhus polyacanthus
Amazon leaffish, Monocirrhus polyacanthus, hidden in the middle of aquatic plants. 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 - A Clever Camouflage Artist!". In this photo print, we witness the incredible talent of the Amazon leaffish, Monocirrhus polyacanthus. Hidden amidst a lush bed of aquatic plants in the heart of the Amazon basin, this remarkable creature perfectly mimics a dead leaf. Its flattened body and filament at the tip of its lower jaw create an uncanny resemblance to nature's fallen foliage. With its gray-brown hue that can adapt to match its surroundings, this masterful imitator seamlessly blends into its environment. No lateral line betrays its presence as it swims ever so slowly in a head-down position, mirroring a lifeless leaf drifting along with the current. But don't be fooled by its tranquil demeanor! When hunger strikes, this cunning predator springs into action. Protracting its mouth to form a tube-like structure, it swiftly sucks in unsuspecting prey – often swallowing them whole and head-first! Its stomach is even flexible enough to accommodate surprisingly large meals. The Amazon leaffish truly embodies nature's ingenuity and resourcefulness. From edges of rivers and lakes to stagnant waters teeming with plant debris, it has mastered survival through mimicry like no other. So next time you spot what seems like an ordinary leaf floating by. . . take another look; it might just be one clever fish on an undercover mission!
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