Hybrid Fish Surprises Scientists: It Can Move Sideways and Backwards
Scientists made an unusual discovery while observing the deep-sea fish Scalicus engyceros, known as the "sea robin." It turned out that it is capable not only of moving forward along the bottom, but also of moving sideways and even backwards, writes the Independent.
This species grows to about 25 centimeters. To move across sand and silt, the fish uses specialized pectoral fin rays that resemble small legs. Previously, it was believed that fish capable of "walking" on the seabed could only move forward.
New video recordings, made in three areas of the northern part of the South China Sea using deep-sea vehicles, revealed significantly broader capabilities of this fish. It can move sideways, similar to a crab, and even backwards. According to researchers, such an ability has not been observed in any other fish species before.
Scientists suggest that when moving, the sea robin combines jerky movements, similar to shrimp, with swimming using its tail. Its pectoral fins help maintain balance, and when in danger, the fish can make sudden, jumping movements.
Its whisker-like growths – barbels – also look unusual. They are located on the sides of the head and resemble small rakes. With their help, the fish explores the seabed, finds prey, and can penetrate its upper layer.
The species Scalicus engyceros was described back in 1872 by the German-British zoologist Albert Günther. However, only now have researchers managed to record its ability to move sideways and backwards.
Scientists note that observing deep-sea animals directly in their natural environment allows for a better understanding of their adaptation and evolution processes. New data may help to look differently at the behavior and development of unusual organisms living in extreme conditions.
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