At SDTN, we promote knowledge about marine life of all kinds. Today, we've got something different for you. While puffer fish are bristly little creatures, they are certainly loveable in their own way - and now, thanks to an underwater photographer named Yoji Ookata, we have another reason to love them. Let's take a look at an amazing phenomenon - one you might even be lucky enough to encounter in your travels!
Underwater Crop Circles Are Puffer Fish Love Nests
If you've ever spent time diving in areas frequented by puffer fish, you may have seen huge underwater patterns that look a lot like the petals of a dahlia, and wondered how they got there. After all, these things, which are reminiscent of crop circles said to be made by UFO's, are more than six feet across; and they're beautifully intricate.
Mr. Ookata encountered one of these underwater crop circles at a depth of about 80 feet, and decided to find out what was going on for himself. So he returned to the structure in question, which featured an intricate pattern of ridges radiating out from its center; this time, he brought a TV crew with him.
The team of photographers was stunned to discover that the beautiful patterns they saw were not being created by humans, underwater currents, or even aliens; instead, a tiny puffer fish was responsible. It took days for the fish to complete his masterpiece. He created the intricate ridges by flapping his fin; then, he carried shells to the site, broke the shells, and scattered the pieces along the pattern's inner ridges.
The fish's hard work paid off. After a short while, female puffer fishes arrived, mated with the male, and deposited their eggs in the circle's central area. Scientists theorize that the ridges made by the male act as a kind of underwater nest, protecting the eggs by making them less visible to predators, and helping to neutralize currents that could carry the eggs away. The seashells, which do look appealing, seem to have a dual purpose as well; it is possible that they serve as an immediate source of nutrition for freshly hatched puffer fish.
Subsequent studies show that the more intricate the nest, the greater likelihood females will visit it. As a result, the most artistic male puffer fish also have the best chance to continue their genetic code.
There are a number of dive sites at which you can encounter puffer fish. In addition to sites in Japan, you'll also find these adorable little fish in Thailand, Fiji, Malaysia, and even in the Red Sea. Remember, these fish pack a powerful sting within their spines; touching them is absolutely not advised. Puffer fish have a tendency to hide in rocky areas, though they do come out to sandy patches to create these nests. You'll find them in shallow reefs as well as along deeper walls. Spend some time observing their behavior - these little fish are simply fascinating.