A synchronized rhythmic flashing light display by schooling Leiognathus splendens (Leiognathidae: Perciformes)

David, J. Woodland and Annadel Sarmiento Cabanban and Valerie , M. Taylor and Ronald, J. Taylor (2002) A synchronized rhythmic flashing light display by schooling Leiognathus splendens (Leiognathidae: Perciformes). In: 6th Indo-Pacific Fish Conference , 20-25 May 2001, Durban, South Africa.

Full text not available from this repository.

Abstract

Ponyfishes emit light produced by symbiotic bacteria residing in an oesophageal diverticulum. A dorsal and, in some species, either a ventral or pair of lateral 'shutters' on the wall of this organ allow the duration and intensity of light emission to be controlled by the fish. By differential use of the shutters, the site on the body wall that is illuminated can also be varied. Four different light displays have been described from captive specimens of various species. We record a spectacular light display in schooling Leiognathus splendens in the field at Ambon, Indonesia. The display occurred at night. Fish emitted brief flashes of light at high frequency over extended periods. All the fish in a school synchronized their flashes, the pooled light markedly increasing underwater visibility for a human observer. Possible explanations for this display include spatial organization of the school, location of planktonic prey, courtship and reduction of attacks by predators.

Item Type: Conference or Workshop Item (UNSPECIFIED)
Keyword: Bioluminescence
Subjects: Q Science > QL Zoology > QL1-991 Zoology > QL605-739.8 Chordates. Vertebrates > QL614-639.8 Fishes
Department: INSTITUTE > Borneo Marine Research Institute
Depositing User: ADMIN ADMIN
Date Deposited: 05 Jan 2012 16:23
Last Modified: 29 Dec 2014 16:04
URI: https://eprints.ums.edu.my/id/eprint/461

Actions (login required)

View Item View Item