The artist formerly known as pufferfish has a new name

by | Jan 26, 2015 | Advanced Aquarist | 0 comments


The artist formerly known as pufferfish has a new name


A pair of Torquigener albomaculosus in their love nest.

pufferart2.jpgThe puffer was officially described as Torquigener albomaculosus.

As we previously reported:

Male puffers create these sand sculptures to attract potential mates.  Scientists observed that the larger the nesting area, the greater the chance a male would attract the attention of females.  Females will swim to the middle to consummate with the artist of their liking, then lay her eggs in the center of the nest.

Even more amazing, these “crop circles” are more than just showsmanship.  Scientists discovered the intricate patterns have hydrodynamic purpose!  The ridges and grooves help to minimize ocean current at the center of the nest, thereby protecting the eggs from turbulence and the likely protecting its occupants from predators.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kj-K_pFoaDo&x-yt-ts=1421914688&feature=player_embedded&x-yt-cl=84503534

  • Leonard Ho

    I'm a passionate aquarist of over 30 years, a coral reef lover, and the blog editor for Advanced Aquarist. While aquarium gadgets interest me, it's really livestock (especially fish), artistry of aquariums, and "method behind the madness" processes that captivate my attention.

0 Comments

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Upcoming Events