We all know fish. But it's weird that they lack arms and legs, right?
CURIOUS FISH
WHAT'S SO COOL ABOUT FISH?
Fish are actually pretty cool. They exists in nearly every body of water, from high up in mountains, down to the deepest oceans. Although fish is a grouping term for an animal with a skull and a backbone who lives without limbs (jellyfish, cuttlefish etc), they are a widely varied species, that live at nearly every depth of the ocean. Some fish have even mastered how to live outside of the ocean on land, for a short duration.
Streepies and a Jutjaw, Windmill Beach
Fish can live harmoniously in community amongst it's own and other species, or they can be extremely solitary and territorial animals, preferring their own company to that of others (an evolutionary trait that clearly us humans too possess). In Cape Town, where two oceans feed False Bay creating a nutrient rich environment that allows live to thrive, animals have had to adapt ways to live alongside each other in this tightly contested ecosystem.
Klipvis, A Frame
Of all the fish that exist on the coast of Cape Town, i find few as fascinating as the Klipvis. Often overlooked as a pest, Klipvis are actually one of the most special species we have. They are one of a small group of fish that give birth to live young, and not eggs. They live in all the coastal waters along South Africa, and this variation in habitat give rise to a large range of colours and patterns. Klipvis will never look the same to each other, and are always worth having a look at when diving.
Red Roman, A Frame
Most fish that exist in Cape Town lack the colour you would generally see in 'tropical fish'. This is with exception of a few special species, like Red Roman. This slow growing bright fish possesses a very special ability; It is able to change its own gender. If a male Roman dies, the alpha female will change its gender, and take place of the deceased male. This adaptation ensures the survival and offspring of the female Roman.