The Swallowfish, scientifically known as Dactylopterus volitans, is one of the most intriguing, characteristic and unique marine species that we can find. Its peculiar appearance, its behaviour and the environment in which it lives make it a unique specimen worthy of study and admiration. This article will allow you to explore in depth all the details about this fascinating fish, from its physical characteristics to its habitat and behaviour.
Main characteristics of the swallow fish
El Dactylopterus volitans, popularly known as the swallow fish, owes its name to its large pectoral fins, which resemble the wings of this bird. These fins not only give it a spectacular appearance, but they also fulfill a crucial function: they allow it to plan along the seabed, which creates the illusion that it is “flying” underwater.
This fish usually measures between 20 and 50 centimeters, its average size being about 40 centimetersIt has a body covered with rough and strong scales, which gives it additional protection against predators. Its color is mottled brown with bluish spots and bands that intensify at the tips of its fins, serving both to camouflage and to intimidate potential threats.
In addition, the swallowfish has a robust head with bony plates that act as a protective shield. This distinctive feature, along with its protuberances and deployable fins, has earned it names such as "batfish" or "devilfish" in some regions.
Behavior and habits
One of the most fascinating abilities of this fish is its ability to spread its pectoral fins in a fan-like shape. This display not only allows it to "fly" underwater, but also makes it appear larger and more formidable to predators. In addition, it is capable of emitting snoring underwater by rubbing their preopercular spines together, which is where their nickname "grunt" comes from.
During the mating season, which usually occurs in summer, males rise to shallower waters to attract females. During these encounters, they often spread their fins and "strut" to woo potential mates. Swallowfish eggs are pelagic and their embryonic development is rapid, which favors their dispersion in different areas of the ocean.
Habitat and distribution
El the habitat The natural habitat of the swallow fish includes sandy, muddy and rocky bottoms at depths ranging from 1 and 100 metersIt is commonly found in tropical, subtropical and temperate seas, especially in the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It can also be observed in brackish waters, such as at river mouths.
In the Mediterranean, it usually swims between 15 and 45 meters depth, although sightings have been recorded at greater depths. It prefers areas close to coral reefs or mangroves, where it finds refuge and abundant food.
Its geographic distribution ranges from the northern coasts of New Jersey in the United States to Brazil in the western Atlantic, and from the English Channel to Angola in the eastern Atlantic. This wide distribution contributes to the fact that this species is not considered to be in danger of extinction.
Feeding the Swallowfish
El swallow fish It is an opportunistic predator that feeds mainly on small fish, crustaceans y molluscsIt uses the front part of its pectoral fins as "legs" to scan and stir up the seabed in search of hidden prey. This behavior makes it an effective hunter in its natural environment.
Thanks to its adaptability and hunting abilities, the swallowfish can thrive in a wide variety of marine ecosystems. Although it has no significant commercial importance, its presence is an indicator of the health of the ecosystems it inhabits, such as sandy bottoms and reefs.